Let's Talk About Your Gym Clothes...
Categories: Advice, Health, Fitness, Fit Family Guy
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The first thing I want you to do is go dig out your old Magnum, P.I. shorts from high school, and that ratty 'FRANKIE SAYS RELAX' t-shirt with the yellow stains in the armpits, find a safe place, and burn them.
Now I'll admit that I'm not a serious fashionista; my fitness wardrobe costs more than my business one, but that's mostly because I buy cheap suits and like to push casual Friday to the limits.
But I do have a lot of workout clothes, and they're all high quality. There is a good reason for this: having nice-looking and good-quality clothing makes exercise more enjoyable. And if it's more enjoyable, you'll exercise more frequently, for longer durations, and at a higher intensity. It's all about positive reinforcement.
Nice workout clothes are more comfortable, they look better, and they last longer too. I am a firm believer in the adage that you get what you pay for. There is a certain brand of fitness clothing I'm exceptionally fond of (OK, I'll tell you: it's lululemon) because not only does it look and feel good, but I can beat it like a rented mule, wash it again and again, and it still looks new.
I engage in some really intense exercise that makes regular clothing so foul it needs psychotherapy. Higher quality stuff can take anything I can dish out, and then after a trip through the washing machine it comes out fresh and saying, "Is that all you got?"
Beyond the positive reinforcement of wearing the appropriate attire, it also has an impact on your feelings of self-efficacy, which is a situation-specific form of self-confidence. Good exercise clothes can be considered tools of the trade.
For example, I'm a regular runner, going out in all kinds of weather, and having clothes that are specifically designed for different running conditions allows me to perform better and makes the experience more enjoyable. Here is a sample list of my running wardrobe:
- Five pairs of running socks that cost $15 each. Yes, they're socks, and yes, they cost $15 a pair. They're worth it.
- Shoes that are not only made for running, but that I had an experienced staff member at a running store help me pick out, based on my gait and foot shape.
- Numerous pairs of shorts that keep things where they belong and prevent chafing.
- Shirts that wick the sweat away.
- A GORE-TEX jacket that doesn't let the wind in and has vents along the sides if I get too warm.
- A running-specific balaclava that wicks away sweat and warms up the air before I breathe it in.
- Thick running pants for those exceptionally cold days to make sure vital parts of my anatomy don't get frostbite.
I've got plenty of nice shorts, track pants and shirts for the gym as well. One of the great things about this is that I never have to worry having something clean to wear, and I won't get pegged as one of those annoying gym patrons who wear the same workout clothes day after day.
Some people suffer from gym intimidation because it can be a bit of a fashion show. People who aren't the hottest or slimmest patrons can feel inadequate compared to some of the prancing and preening "beauties" (NOTE: sarcasm) who are out there. If you aren't the fittest person at the gym then I've got something important to tell you:
No one cares.
I started out in the gym at a BMI that almost qualified as "obese," and I found it to be a very accepting and encouraging environment. I've exercised in about 40 different gyms across five different countries and two cruise ships, and they are full of people of all shapes and sizes. Maybe in hardcore bodybuilding gyms there is a pecking order, but at the typical health club my feelings were always that it didn't matter what shape you were in, but that you were simply there and working on being fit and healthy.
With that being written, there are things you can do to look your best. Take a look at the lululemon shirt I'm wearing in my bio page. Whoever designed that shirt is a genius. It makes my chest and shoulders look bigger and my waist appear slimmer. If you're concerned about your appearance while at the gym, then there are workout clothes you can buy that slim the bulging parts and accentuate the nice ones.
Finally, this all costs money. I didn't go out and drop a couple grand on clothes when I started working out; I built up my exercise wardrobe over time. What's more, people always know what to get me for Christmas.
Exercise is not only a big part of my life, it's my #1 hobby, and hobbies cost money. I don't play golf, own a boat or have a monthly World of Warcraft charge on my credit card, so I can afford it. Staying in shape is where some of my disposable income goes, and I consider it money well spent.
James S. Fell is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and a middle-aged family man with a desk job and not much free time, yet he's able to keep in shape because he loves exercise and doesn't mind eating healthy. He is the author of Body for Wife: The Family Guy's Guide to Getting in Shape. His column for That's Fit.ca focuses on weightlifting, running and exercise motivation.
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
Leanna 2-02-2010 @ 12:28PM
Guess what? The gym or workout centre is for those of us that arent rich enough to have a vast wardrobe, let alone lu lu lemon. And your article is classist and disgusting. If you dont like what IM WEARING get over yourself. Im not there to impress you anyways. And trust me, im super fit; working can fit pro instructor thank you very much. Anytime you wanna go we can go lemon girl
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SaraMack 2-02-2010 @ 12:52PM
Leanna you are an idiot. you totally missed th e point. he wasnt criticizing people for what they wear he was encouragning them to take fintess seriously.
trying to actually pick a fight with someone on the internet is really stupid. grow up.
Beth 2-02-2010 @ 1:49PM
Leanna you must have a problem. Your comments are totally ridiculous and in my opinion show that you must have very low ego strength. It is a very well known fact that the better you present yourself, no matter what the endeavour, fitness, work, or going out to dinner, the better you feel emotionally. Working out is one of the hardest things to do for most people and I totally agree with James that the better you look the better you feel and it becomes a self fulfilling prophecy.
StaceyWynn 2-02-2010 @ 7:35PM
I did not get the impression that he was criticizing your wardrobe. He was pointing out that you might exercise more or enjoy your exercise more if you like the outfit that you are wearing. Also, there is a reason that good workout clothes are more expensive and they are worth it. Trust me, as a single mother who works out at home because I do not have the money for a gym pass, saving your money for good quality workout clothes is worth it. It doesn't take too long (alright it's been 5 years but they have flown by) to accumulate a good selection of workout clothes and because I have bought good quality ones they are all still in good shape.
I'm sorry your feelings were hurt by this article. I'm sure it was not intended as criticism.
James S. Fell 2-02-2010 @ 12:28PM
Don't hold back Leanna. Tell me how you really feel.
I think you missed the point of the article, which was viewing fitness clothing as tools of the trade. If you wear clothes that are resilient, comfortable, and make you feel good about the way you look, then this has a positive impact on your exercise experience (which creates positive reinforcement). The result is higher adherance to an exercise program.
It's simple advice. Take it or leave it.
Best regards,
James Fell
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karen 2-02-2010 @ 1:48PM
So do you feel stupid now Leanna? Don't worry, your not the only one. Today's thoughts are "I don't care what people think". Well we should care. Etiquette and pride has gone out the window with that saying. (In every aspect of life)
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Tara 2-03-2010 @ 9:18AM
Karen, you are so right. We need to have some pride instead of going out dressed like slobs. The "I don't care what people think of me" attitude has gone way too far and it has impacted our society as a whole. The performance of quality clothing vs the average cotton t-shirt is the point of the article, so take it easy folks. Look good, feel better, and you will be inspired! It's true and doesn't have to cost a fortune if you don't have it. Pull up your socks, everyone, whether they are $15 or $2!
TheAverageJane 2-02-2010 @ 1:52PM
Leanna is totally correct. This is the most elitist thing I have ever read. We get it that you like yourself and your expensive wardrobe James. And your response to Leanna's comment is not AT ALL what you say in your article. Back peddle much? $15 socks? Well, you must be a blessed man.
Every thought about fitness advice for everyone? Not just the elite and good looking?
Just some more simple advice- take it or leave it.
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SaraMack 2-02-2010 @ 2:00PM
avejane did you actually read this or skim it ? i didn't see any backpedaling going on. the point he mad e in the comment is the same as the post. he wasnt insulting anyone but you people are so thin skinned that you cant handle some real advise.
beth was right on with her comment
clarmar 2-02-2010 @ 11:49PM
The great thing about the net is that it allows you to say those things you would never say to a person's face. That being said....
as a former personal trainer I was always amused by those who gussied up for the gym, but hey to each their own. At least they are there right? Honestly who cares what other people do? I don't. And I don't care what people think of me.either. As long as my family and friends love me and I love myself I couldn't give a rat's ass what strangers think.
Go to the gym in clean, comfy,clothes that breathe and are not restrictive to movement. And sometimes you can find LULU lemon stuff at the sally ann.xo
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martha 2-02-2010 @ 3:46PM
I do hot yoga. And I had to bite the bullet and get some Really Good yoga wear that was going to help me survive that crazy Bikram-style madness (I love it, but). I asked around and took the advice of trusted friends and spent what I considered to be a small fortune on the gear, despite vowing that lulu was TOO expensive.
And I've bought more lulu stuff because, as you say James, you can abuse and mistreat it and the stuff just keeps looking AWESOME, and most importantly Keeps Its Shape. And it accomodates my mommyshape very nicely; the designers really are great.
I may buy more; it still is crazy expensive and I have a shoe fetish to feed also, but for now it's great and I have enough so I can go every day if I want.
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Lola 2-02-2010 @ 3:47PM
I'm sorry but this does sound very elitist, and a little self-stroking, James. Not only do you list your expensive clothes, you go on to talk about your form in a certain top. It's offputting.
I understand that one should have pride in how they look and that it extends itself from there. But does that mean you have to have a 15.00 pair of socks, and then to go on and list the type of clothes you have? What point does that prove?
I think if you wear clean clothes and what you can afford, the most important thing is that you are taking care of your body and going to the gym. Nowadays, some people have to choose between 15.00 socks and putting food on the table.
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StaceyWynn 2-04-2010 @ 7:15PM
You clearly haven't tried the $15 socks. They are not better than food on the table but if you put a dollar a week aside they are totally worth the 15 week wait. And for the record, before I tried them (I won my first pair as a door prize after a race) I never imagined myself saying that.
I think the point of the article is that when you buy good quality workout clothes (they don't need to be Lulu lemon) then not only do you feel good about yourself but your workout also feels better. There is a reason that good workout clothes are more expensive, they improve your workout proformace and comfort.
maothleannan 2-02-2010 @ 4:43PM
All the divas attacking the average person... oo what a shock lmao Go shop and leave the gym to the real athletes.... i know i know you dont sweat you glisten.
Resorting to calling someone NAMES is so "together" and intelligent tho.
Believe it or not, im entitled to my opinion; so stuff it.
And if you need "clothes" to motivate you? Honey you dont have a chance in hell of staying at your regime. It is a lifestyle not a cat walk....
maybe in this case however MEEEEEEE OW. : )
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clarmar 2-02-2010 @ 11:48PM
I agree with Lola about the annoying self-stroking. I am not saying that men shouldn't wear tight, 'flattering' numbers like the author is wearing. I find it always good for a chuckle when males parade in the gym.
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James S. Fell 2-02-2010 @ 7:56PM
I find little purpose in debating matters of opinion, so I won’t.
However, I really do want to come to the defence of my $15 socks. They happen to be the only socks that preserve my feet and don’t result in numerous blisters from all the running I do. This is just another “tools of the trade” example.
This is a simple matter of priorities. Fitness is a major priority for me so I budget accordingly to ensure that I have the appropriate equipment. This makes me enjoy exercise more, which is the message I attempted to convey.
Regarding priorities, for other guys they prioritize driving expensive Hummers and Corvettes. I drive a 12-year-old Honda with a paltry1.6 L engine, and it suits my ego just fine.
The one thing I hope that most of us can agree on is that very revealing tank tops are just plain yucky.
Wishing the best of health and fitness to all,
James Fell
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Brian 2-03-2010 @ 9:19AM
Hey Guys!
People who work out, and I mean really work out, not the new years's resolution crowd, like themselves - that's why we work out. Putting so much effort into your own health and wellbeing you have to think yourself worth it! And those same people who work out have to have good stuff. You have to have it. The first time I went to a real running authority on running shoes and bought myself a pair of running shoes that were actually made for my feet - I couldn't befieve it - I will never go back. It is the same for socks, and shorts and hydration and nutrition and whatever! James is not full of himself because he shops at lululemon, but it is self-indulgence. If your working out in Walmart kicks and Zellers track pants, great job keep working out, but sooner or later you'll realize the blister on your ass can be avoided with some $80.00 compresson shorts by Under Armour.
Have fun and keep moving!
Keep writting James!
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Vivian 2-03-2010 @ 6:29PM
I agree with James.
Having the right "tools of the trade" definitely makes a difference. He has $15 socks that make his feet happy while running, I buy $29 compression socks that have lasted (so far) for 2 years and make my legs very happy after standing for 7 hours.
Oh, and deodorant. Most important item of all.
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EM 2-04-2010 @ 12:51PM
IMO having the tools of the trade to work out means having the equipment available to you and the knowledge to use the equipment safely and effectively.
If your workout outfit costs 300$ but you have no clue what your doing in the gym, you do not have the "tools of the trade"
EM 2-04-2010 @ 12:51PM
I think what alot of people aren't considering is the various kinds of working out.
If you're going to be going to the gym and doing a weight lifting circuit then going home, it doesnt matter what shirt you have or what shoes you have, so long as you are comfortable and can get full range of motion.
However if you want to power lift then there are advantages to different clothes (shirts that help you bench press, flatter shoes, etc..).
For running, shoes, socks, and shorts all make a pretty big difference. However, if your not training to be in a marathon or an elite athlete (ie. if your running for health) going out and buying expensive clothes can be a waste of money (so long as your legs have full range of motion in your current clothes and your shoes are not hurting you).
Personally I work out in compression shorts just because I dont like having to worry about boxers riding up in the middle of a workout, as well I wear a dryfit long sleeve shirt just for comfort and 5$ shorts from walmart (outfit (minus compression shorts) probably costs 60$). I feel comfortable and confident and havent had a problem doing any movements.
IMO what people should take away from this article is if your equipment makes you feel good and comfortable use it, if it doesnt, get new equipment because being comfortable and feeling confident in the gym will make your workouts more enjoyable and in turn hopefully lead to you working out more frequently and consistently.
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