You think you have seen it all until you see someone unironically wearing heels on the treadmill. The gym can be an overwhelming and scary place for those who are new and don’t know what to wear. VALLEY has come with some wear and tears for the gym so you don’t have to be embarrassed the next time you go in for a quick workout!
The Basic On What Not To Do
Friendly tips:
- Don’t wear anything that is too tight.
- Don’t wear anything that is unbreathable.
- Don’t wear open-toed shoes (unless doing yoga and they will be off in a safe place).
Jeans Are Acceptable, Almost Everywhere
At the gym, most types of pant wear are acceptable, but other kinds are simply not. Jeans should not be worn at the gym and here’s why:
- Have you ever sat in jeans? It can be uncomfortable, let’s avoid it.
- Tight jeans restrict blood flow.
- Baggy jeans are simply too bulky for machines.
Whenever you see someone wearing jeans at the gym, you automatically turn your head because it is not socially acceptable, also they are not practical.
All Eyes Not On You
As for shirts, the rules are loose. It is all about whatever makes you feel the most comfortable. You could go in a sports bra, tank top, long sleeve or short sleeve shirt, even sweaters and hoodies are acceptable. Some guys may even decide to go shirtless.
The gym is the place where you can be yourself and there should be little to no judgement. Everyone is in there to work on themselves or to let go of stress, no one is too focused on what you are wearing. For many people, the gym is where they feel the most vulnerable so wearing the clothes that fit you best and make you feel the most comfortable is key.
The Treadmill Is Not The Runway
Whether you are going to the gym for a quick pump, a yoga session, or a run on the treadmill, the shoes you wear say a lot about your experience. Certain types of exercises require certain shoes. You wouldn’t go running in ballet shoes, and you wouldn’t lift weights in sandals. We’ve seen people go on the treadmill with sneakers, running shoes, clogs, barefoot even and some people may think to go as far as wearing heels or boots on a treadmill.
Shoes at the gym are more than a fashion statement, they are safety features. The reason ballerinas wear ballet shoes is to protect their ankles from twisting. Sandals should be avoided at the gym for the same reason they should be avoided in a chem lab. You don’t want machinery falling on you and breaking your toes.
It Can Still Be Your Fashion Show
No matter where you are, it is important to be you. There is always a way to make gym clothes fit your style. Whether you like wearing leggings, biker shorts, sweatpants or gym shorts, make sure it’s unique to you. You can wear matching sets or mix and match, there are no rules!
Ladies, Avoid “The Toe”
Some girls can get self-conscious when wearing tight leggings or biker shorts at the gym. They try to avoid the dreaded camel toe. This may happen when our little friend is squeezed too tightly between our leggings and she pops out a little more than we would want her to. To help avoid embarrassment make sure to:
- Size right. Choose the right size of leggings, nothing too tight.
- Flatten her out. Wear thicker leggings or underwear.
- Front seams are your enemy. Choose leggings that don’t have a front seam.
Deciding what to wear to the gym can be confusing, but this guide should give you some helpful tips. Let VALLEY know your gym horror stories on X @VALLEYmag!
1 Comment