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Original poster

What to wear for gym

37 replies

yh8181 · 01/04/2026 06:05

Trying to start the gym now
what should I wear and what brands to go for?

OP posts:

Chocolatecustardcreamsrule · 02/04/2026 20:09

Sweaty Betty power leggings are my favorite. Always buy in the sale though (or sign up and put your birthday for the following month and they will send you a 50% off voucher on that date). I have had some pairs for years now and no sign of wear.

I like pairing with a flowy type t-shirt from Nike/under armor etc. I like Nike sports bras the best as the pad is just one long pad rather than little ones that get lost in the wash.

TheKateColumbo · 02/04/2026 20:14

SummerInSun · 01/04/2026 15:41

I’m another massive fan of either Sweaty Betty or Lululemon leggings, also always bought on sale. Yes they are expensive, but you get what you pay for. They are don’t ride up or down but stay in place. They are sweat wicking so you don’t get soggy or ugly sweat patches. They have sensibly placed pockets so you can have your phone on your thigh and your keys in your back waistband. They are generally seamless or have seams in sensible places so they don’t chafe even on a really long run. They are really good quality and last forever which is what important because you have to wash them after every wear (you don’t wear underpants with them). I’ve had pairs I’ve had for over five years and would have work at least once a week on average over that time that are still going strong, even though they go through the washing machine and drier after every wear. And, finally, they are sculpting and flattering, which if you need a bit of a boost to your self esteem while you work out is very helpful!

There is a world of difference between “active wear” style fast fashion and proper workout clothes.

Edited

People don’t wear underwear under leggings?!

Cricketashes · 02/04/2026 22:33

TheKateColumbo · 02/04/2026 20:14

People don’t wear underwear under leggings?!

Show quote history

No, I don't.

BIWI · 03/04/2026 09:20

I do! Would hate it if my leggings were to split

autumnboys · 03/04/2026 09:30

Sweaty Betty leggings in the sale or using blue light card discount, paired with ancient Tesco T-shirts I wore before I lost weight. No one is looking at what anyone else is wearing, as others have said. Enjoy the gym! I never thought I would but I found the right gym for me and I love it now.

HeidiLite · 03/04/2026 09:32

BIWI · 03/04/2026 09:20

I do! Would hate it if my leggings were to split

this literally happened to an instructor friend of mine during bodypump squat track. Team underwear.

autumnboys · 03/04/2026 09:32

Having just RTFT, I’d just like to add that I always wear knickers under my leggings!

Sirzy · 03/04/2026 09:49

Knickers all the way here too!

angela1952 · 03/04/2026 10:29

TheKateColumbo · 02/04/2026 20:14

People don’t wear underwear under leggings?!

Show quote history

I do.

TheKateColumbo · 03/04/2026 13:37

I’m glad I’m not a lone wolf knicker wearer, I could never go commando. My friend fell on the treadmill and her leggings fell down, she was embarrassed enough in pants!
Although I’m a bit more grossed out by the people who don’t wipe the seats down when they’re done now.

LoserWinner · 03/04/2026 13:51

M&S leggings and a slim fit Primark cotton T shirt - I row a lot, and a fitted T shirt wicks the sweat so it doesn’t drip down my back.

MrsTravelBug · 03/04/2026 13:58

I wear gym shark leggings and a sports bra as do 90% of the women in my gym regardless of age or size.

I wear knickers too!

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