Are you new to the gym and have no idea what to wear? Or perhaps you’ve been getting into running and want the best type of running shoe. I have a list of the best workout gear for women. These 8 items are what I use on a daily basis.
(Blue’s Best Life is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program. I earn a small commission if you purchase through those links. This helps me keep the blog going! -Bobbie)
I think we’ve all been in that dilemma of not knowing what the best brand is or style to buy. We don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on something that doesn’t live up to its promise. Through trial and error over the past 15 years, I’ve figured out what works best for me in both running and gym workouts. I want to offer my advice to help you select the best workout gear so you can get to the gym and feel comfortable and confident!
Here’s my 8 essential items
- Shorts with a liner
- Sports bra
- Tank Top
- Shoes for both running and training
- Socks
- Sunglasses
- Workout Gloves
- Headphones
If it's my day off you'll definitely find me in some version of workout gear. Comfort and functionality are the most important element for me. Of course I want to be a little stylish but its not my top concern! Through the years I've tried many different types of shoes, shorts, sports bras, etc. These are the ones that I find are the best for me and the types of activities I do.
Shorts with a liner
Shorts are crucial in Florida especially if you’re running outside. I prefer shorts that I can wear for both gym workouts and running. My favorite style has a built in liner. This is perfect for when I’m doing leg presses at the gym and don’t want to worry about flashing my underwear! Plus they are more modest than a yoga shorts style.
Sports Bra
This is one of the most important pieces of clothing. I need something that keeps me from jiggling as I run! Let’s face it a bra with no support is useless and can make running very uncomfortable.
My favorite brand is Victoria Secret because it not only gives great support it doesn't flatten me like a pancake. They have built in padding that helps give shape and support. Of course it is a bit of an investment but I’ve had several that have lasted for years! I’m just careful not to dry in the dryer. Drip drying will keep the elastic from degrading.
Tank tops
I pretty much always wear tanks for workouts. When I’m running the constant rubbing of a shirt on my arms is an annoyance. Having my arms free is much more comfortable. Something loose and breathable is an extra bonus.
Shoes for both running and training
Here’s another key element for your attire. The perfect shoe that not only works for running, but the gym as well. If you are new to working out and trying to pick out a new shoe, think about what exercises you will be doing? Are you just going to run or will you be doing cardio interval training as well?
These workouts are completely different for your feet so the type of shoe is extremely important. In the past I chose a shoe more for running appeal. While it was perfect for impact it wasn’t good for skaters, mountain climbers or burpees. The tread was a thick air pocket that was not flexible for needing to get on the balls of my feet!
My suggestion (and this is what I always do now when shoe shopping) not only try on shoes and walk around but test them in the store. Who cares how silly you look?! It’s better than spending 100 + dollars on something you don't like. I’ll run around the store and try squats, jumping jacks and lunges. This helps me decide if the shoe is not only comfortable and supportive, but if it has the flexibility that I need as well.
What kind of sock is good for running?
When my husband first got into running he had issues with blisters. My first thought is he needs better socks! People really underestimate a good sock and how beneficial it can be.
I like socks that are a little thicker because I feel that it keeps my feet stable and not sliding around in my shoe. I always go for a no show style except for the design feature of the high heel tab. This is a little section on the back of the sock that keeps it from sliding down and your shoe and rubbing the back of your heel! My favorite brand is Balega. I promise you'll never have your socks sliding down in your shoes with these!
Sunglasses
If you are exercising outside you will definitely need a lightweight pair of sunglasses. Trying to run with a thicker plastic frame is the worst when they start to slide from sweat. My favorite is Oakley because they have several light weight frameless models that come in all different colors and with polarized lenses. If you are doing any type of exercise near the water polarized lenses will help reduce the glare from the water. I absolutely cannot run without them especially living in sunny Florida.
Workout Gloves
I use workout gloves on any day I do an upper body routine. It’s not only to prevent calluses but it helps with gripping weights. I feel my form is better, and I can lift a little bit heavier when I’m wearing gloves.
Headphones or Earbuds?
It seems that a lot of people love headphones. I know they have better sound quality. Even my husband loves his headphones. However, I prefer something less bulky. If I’m doing jumping jacks, burpees and sit-ups, I need something that will stay in place and not slide around on my head.
I fell in love with Jabra earbuds. Honestly, I would have never picked these out. They were a gift from my husband, who loves researching tech items. He did an awesome job and I can do all of my workouts with out any bulky headphones!
After working out for many years I feel that these are the essential items for a great workout. Of course it always depends on where you live or if you are doing indoor or outdoor training. Try some of these styles out if you are looking for the best workout gear for women!
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