Gym Clothes

[PretzelPrincess]

I've just joined a swanky gym and am in need of a wardrobe update. I know it's totally superficial and no one cares what I look like while I'm sweating away but indulge me. What are the trendy folk wearing these days?
Also is there an alternative to tights/leggings? I don't like anything too skin tight but it seems to be the only things in the shops!
I'm a size 8 if that helps.

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This thread is a little old now, so why not check out our round-up of the gym wear Mumsnetters recommend for something a little more up-to-date. MNHQ.

[UnicornMadeOfPinkGlitter]

Nike do double shorts. So cycle length tight fitting shorts with looser shorts over the top.

[UnicornMadeOfPinkGlitter]

m.nike.com/gb/en_gb/pd/2-in-1-3-running-shorts/pid-10846847/pgid-11168588

[acurtis1234]

If it's the feel of skin tight you don't like, technical fibres are great nowadays, you won't feel them, although you might not get them at supermarket prices. About 1% wear loose fitting clothes, and it looks odd, on all shapes and sizes, honestly. Don't do it.

Lots of ppl will be on to recommend Sports Direct, Matalan and Decathlon, all of which have their place, but if you've joined a swanky gym and as you asked to be indulged, then go for Sweaty Betty, Gap, Nike, Adidas, Under Armour. There are more boutique-y places, but that's a start. Sweaty Betty has a sale on now, Gap have constant discount codes if you sign up.

As a starter, go for black 3/4 length leggings with a bright colour vest and contrasting sports bra. Doesn't matter if you can see it underneath.

Again, as you asked, Nike or Adidas trainers will have more swank appeal, you can pick up a bright, decent pair for around £50.

Obviously brand names don't matter (although with sports wear, the clothes you wear will actually help you stay cool and comfortable, and you'll perform better). I'd recommend you go for a coffee and watch the regulars come and go for a bit if you're really bothered.

[PretzelPrincess]

All good suggestions above! I'm going to have a Google now. I like the idea of bright top but black leggings. I just don't like the thought of my butt and thighs on display. I just feel exposed, if that makes sense?
Are skirts over leggings still a thing?

[phoolani]

I'd also go with the black leggings and bright vest. It used to be fairly normal to go for baggier options (or at least a boot cut legging!) but not really any more - and they really make you stand out and not in a good way. Nike leggings are great for holding things in, tho at a size 8 there isn't that much to hold in. And no, nobody is looking at you, unless you develop some envy-worthy muscles of course 😉. I buy at sweaty Betty and - if I'm feeling flush - lulu lemon.

[MabelSideswipe]

I wear yoga pants for gym work. They work fine. I think tight cropped leggings would make my legs look even shorter.

[Loulou0]

I've just discovered M&S sports range. Amazing! Their long bottoms are really comfy and high waisted. Tops are good quality and nice colours. They do lovely colourful sports Bras but also packs of two black and white ones if you're on a budget

[PretzelPrincess]

Phoolani I'm what you call 'skinny fat' So I'm quite petite but what is there is very wobbly and doesn't hold its shape well! So I will check out Nike for the support.

[mrsvilliers]

Pretzel I bought some running tights last winter and was really sceptical I was going to feel exposed but they kind of suck you in without being tight. Sometimes TK Maxx can be good for exercise clothes, as ever you need to dredge through it all though.

[TooExtraImmatureCheddar]

H&M do really nice gym clothes. I know it isn't very swanky, but they are lovely!

[Bedsheets4knickers]

New look have nice gym clothes

[Fuzzypeggy]

No op I really wouldn't wear a skirt over leggings at the gym. How nearly I'm sure you'll look fine in leggings and no one will be looking at you

[NicknameUsed]

I bought a nice racer style vest from my gym the other day. It wasn't expensive. I wear a crop style racer bra from Primark under it.

[acurtis1234]

Honestly and truly, looser, baggier clothes will make you look far bigger and wobblier than you are. Good quality leggings will hold you in and look so much better. If you're really insistent, try and find a longer length vest, but still make sure it's slim fitting.

Our gym has a cafe area, where people hang out after class. Take a book or laptop as cover and have a coffee and watch people coming out of the gym or the classes you're interested in. If you see more than one or two in loose clothes I'll be amazed.

Besides, how long do you plan to be "skinny fat" anyway if you're going to exercise? Go 3x a week and eat healthily and you'll get results in a few weeks.

[PretzelPrincess]

All good suggestions guys. And yes I probably just need to get over my self consciousness. Off to the shops today to try on some leggings!