The Bra Blog
Essential Pieces of Gear Every Woman Needs to Start Working Out
Making the decision to start working out is something that’s worth congratulations. It’ll be both exciting and empowering, but whether you’ve chosen to hit the gym, go for runs, or start a workout routine at home, you should know that having the right gear is crucial. The right equipment doesn’t just help you perform better – it also keeps you safe and comfortable.
Narrowing down the pieces of equipment that you really need to get started with exercising can be difficult, though, given all the options out there. If you find yourself at a loss on where to start, here’s a list of the absolute essentials:
1. A Wireless Supportive Sports Bra: A Non-Negotiable Essential
A quality wireless supportive sports bra is one of the most important investments that you can make for your workout gear. It isn’t just about comfort – it’s also about protecting your body. Wearing a sports bra that offers the support you need can prevent discomfort, injury, and long-term sagging, whether you’re doing cardio, strength training, yoga, or sports like tennis or basketball.
Finding the Right Sports Bra Fit
It’s essential to get the right fit when choosing a sports bra. The ones that you purchase should offer support without digging into your skin. A good rule of thumb is to check how it fits at the band around your rib cage, as well as the straps and if you can fit 2 fingers in between. Size up if it feels too tight or leaves marks; do the opposite if it’s too loose, as you’ll otherwise lose support.
It’s also important to purchase a sports bra that’s appropriate for your activity level. There are different levels of impact for different sports bras, from low to high. For low-impact sports like yoga and Pilates, go for a low impact sports bra with firm support like our LIGHT & FIRM.
For high-impact activities such as HIIT, running, or crossfit, you might want to check out our MOMENTUM or AIR CONTROL DELTAPAD sports bras, which offer maximum support.
2. Moisture-Wicking Workout Clothes: To Stay Cool and Comfortable
The last thing you want when you’re sweating through a workout is to feel as though you’re drenched in clingy, uncomfortable clothes. Trust us: it can be incredibly distracting! Clothes made out of moisture-wicking fabrics and materials are designed to draw sweat away from your skin and evaporate quickly, which will keep you cool and dry.
What to Look for in Activewear
For tops, leggings, and shorts, seek out fabrics like polyester or nylon blends that have moisture-wicking properties. These materials won’t just keep you comfortable; they’ll also help you avoid chafing, which is a common issue for women doing intense workouts.
Fit is also crucial. You want workout clothes that allow for a full range of motion so that they don’t restrict you while you move. Leggings with a high waist offer extra support and won’t slip down during exercises, while tops with mesh panels can increase breathability.
3. Proper Footwear: Invest in Good Workout Shoes
Your feet are the foundation of your workouts, and you need to protect them. Without the right shoes, you risk injury, discomfort, and poor performance. You can’t just buy the first pair of workout shoes that you see in the store, though. Different workout shoes are designed specifically for different activities, so it’s important to choose the right pair for your routine.
Choosing the Best Workout Shoes
If your chosen activity is running, then you’ll need running shoes that have excellent cushioning. These will absorb the impact of each step that you take. For lifting weights, you’ll want shoes that provide a flat and stable base to keep you in proper form. If you're into cross-training or group fitness classes, a good pair of cross-trainers will provide the versatility and support you need for various movements.
The one thing that you should remember when picking out workout shoes is to make sure that they fit well, leaving a little room at the toes and providing enough support for your arches. Replacing your workout shoes every 300 to 500 miles (or about every six months) is also a good idea: this ensures that you’ll always have the support and cushioning that you need.
4. A Water Bottle: Stay Hydrated, Stay Healthy
One of the most important – and most overlooked, unfortunately – aspects of working out is staying hydrated. You lose fluids through sweat when you exercise, which is why you need a reliable water bottle by your side to keep your body fueled and prevent dehydration.
Choosing the Right Water Bottle
You can choose any water bottle that holds enough water to keep you hydrated through your entire workout, so long as it’s easy to carry and drink from. If you want to keep your water cold, go for an insulated option; if you’re on the go a lot, a bottle with a built-in filter ensures you can refill from any tap without worrying about water quality.
Starting your fitness journey can be a little overwhelming, but with the right gear, you'll set yourself up for success. The essentials we’ve covered are all you need to get started on the right foot. It’s not about having the fanciest or most expensive equipment – it’s about choosing the right gear that fits your needs, keeps you comfortable, and helps you perform at your best.
When it comes to the women’s activewear side of things, we’ve got you covered with our selection of high-quality sports bras, tights, and more. Browse through our selection today to start your sports apparel wardrobe!
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