What should I wear to the gym? A great Newbie question. If you are reading this, chances are you’re either brand new to the gym or haven’t been in a while. Trends are always changing when it comes to fit wear. Maybe you remember (or even wore) the leg warmers and g-string leotards of the 80’s. Now, depending on the location of your gym, attire may be a bit more conservative. Our gym (EDGE Fitness Club) tends to lean that way since the average age is 55 plus, but take a trip to Westlake and you might see more flesh than the eye can handle. Here are some tips for fitting in.

Ladies, go for spandex pants (flared legs are in), a tank top that is fitted but loose enough to feel comfortable in. Dark colors or black is best because it is slimming, they don’t get dirty as easily, and it hides sweat marks. Short-shorts say “look at me”, so wear them if that’s your thing. Find a good pair of either running or cross training sneakers and you are ready to go. Oh and one more thing, save the perfume for after your workout!

Guys, find a loose pair of polyester-type pants or shorts. Cotton is too hot and sweat shows through to easily. Keep the short-shorts in the box of gym clothes from college where they belong. I can’t tell you how many times I have had to turn my head and gag because some guy’s junk was falling out while stretching! Tank tops or even a regular old t-shirt is fine, but unless you are at a meat-head gym save the “nipple T” for yard work. Same advice for shoe selection as I gave the ladies and it’s better NOT to exercise in sandals or work boots.

I find most of my clothes at the local outlet stores, so have a look and hopefully you can find something just right…