Why Your Old Gym Clothes Are Killing Your Form
When it comes to gym clothes, the saying out with the old and in with the new has never rung truer. Just like your favourite wardrobe pieces that have been through the wars, gym clothes are also subject to their own lifespans. In fact the lifespan given to gym clothes should be even more stringent. Given that most gym pieces are designed for functionality and support, their life span should be based on how well they continue to serve their purpose.
The Stretchy Pants: Nothing will make you look and feel your very best ahead of that gym session like the right gym pants. Over time, your favourite form fitting pants will start to loosen. You may even notice that the seams and waistband are starting to come apart. If they don’t hug you like they used to, it’s time for an update. If you have taken your workouts to the next level, you may want to consider swapping your regular tights for compression tights, which are scientifically proven to aid in both performance and recovery. Though a little pricier, they may shed the extra seconds from your run, ensuring they give athletes a competitive edge.
The tank: While a loose or dated tank top won’t compromise your form, it may compromise your commitment to the cause. If we’re really being honest, women dress for themselves and to feel good. The right tank top or tee can place you in the perfect frame of mind to attend the gym and kick some serious butt. If you have been working out in your favourite band t-shirt, you may also want to consider investing in a proper gym tee. A polyester and Lycra blend will draw sweat away from the body limit chafing. It will also make less visible sweat marks.
Sports bras: When it comes to women’s sports apparel, next to the right shoes, a sports bra is one of the most important investments a woman can make. The benefits of a good quality, well-fitted crop top or bra are not just a comfortable workout. More importantly, the right crop will ensure you get the right support and avoid long-term damage and sagging. Generally speaking, a crop top or sports bra should be replaced every six months or when the straps begin to loosen up.
Socks: One would think that a hole in the heel would be a sure sign it’s time to invest in a new pair of socks, but one also knows that we would rather spend our money on other thins. While not the most glamorous of gym investments, the right socks will offer added support and cushioning and will limit the occurrence of painful blisters. Sport specific socks are made out of micro-fiber fabric as opposed to cotton, which retains sweat and becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus.
You will also know it’s time for a new pair when they begin to slide in your shoes and no longer hug your feet like a second skin. The right socks should offer grip and not slide around in your shoe.
Shoes: The wrong shoes will not only make for an uncomfortable workout but present numerous health hazards. In the short term, the wrong gym shoes will increase your rick of injury such as rolled ankles and sprains. In the long term, the wrong shoes may increase your chances of developing shin splints and re occurring knee, hip and back pain. If you have been wearing your casual sneakers to the gym or during your run, it’s definitely time to invest in a sport specific pair.
When to replace them: While general wear and tear is a good sign that it’s time to invest in a new pair of kicks, there are a few general rules to follow. If you exercise between 3 to 6 times a week, you should be replacing your shoes twice a year. One way to test your shoe is to hold it at both ends. If they are not firm and twist too easily, it’s time for a new pair. If you are having to tie your shoelaces too tightly and feel like your feet are not supported, its time to invest in a new pair.
