What to Wear When You're Breaking a Sweat!

 I think it's safe to say that a lot of us get bored with doing the same workout routine. Similar to changing our wardrobe, it's nice to spice up and change our workout regimens once in a while. Every sport, activity, or type of exercise requires certain types of clothing and gear to ensure comfort, and safety in some cases. Here are a few fun activities/sports with some tips on what you SHOULD and should NOT wear while you are breaking a sweat and burning those calories:

Bikram Yoga

This style of yoga is done in rooms that are as high as 105 degrees F and 40% humidity in order to detoxify sweat and heat up the body to help you get into yoga postures. This type of heat makes in necessary for you to wear clothing that will give you freedom of movement and the ability to wick away moisture. 

What to wear: Wear breathable cotton tops and shorts with some Spandex material so that it forms to your body. This can be either a form-fitting top with a shelf bra for support or a sports bra that fits comfortably and doesn't inch up. For bottoms you should WEAR SHORTS such as running shorts with comfortable waistbands, spandex/yoga/biking shorts that form to the body, or 3/4 length pants. All of these should be made from cotton, spandex, bamboo, propylene, or any other fabrics that wick away sweat.

What to avoid: DO NOT wear loose fitted clothing! Those are best if worn during your other yoga classes that don't require as much movement. Avoid wearing tights and sweats as well. This type of clothing can cause you to overheat.

Spinning

Spinning is an "indoor cycling" activity with classes that focuses on endurance, strength, intervals, high intensity, and recovery. The activity involves using a special stationary exercise bicycle with a weighted flywheel in a classroom setting. One 45 minute Spin class can burn up to 500 calories! Sign me up!!

What to wear: Since you will be sweating a great deal, clothing with moisture wicking properties and breathability is extremely important. Short-sleeved or sleeveless tops with technical fabrics are great. You should also wear form fitted biking or Spandex shorts that allow comfort during movement. It's also important that your shorts are long enough to prevent chaffing. If you decide that you are going to stick with it you can invest in some padded biking shorts! 

Wearing regular athletic shoes is perfect for beginners. Again, once you've become pro you can invest in some cycling shoes ;).

What not to wear: Do not wear loose fitted clothing, sweats, shorty shorts, or underwear underneath your bike shorts! Bike shorts are actually more sanitary than your underwear because they are designed and manufactured to fend off bacteria and wick away moisture. This can also cause chaffing or soreness.

Zumba

Zumba is an uplifting, extremely effective, easy-to-follow, Latin-inspired, calorie burning "fitness party"!  (who doesn't love to party??) This program blends hot international music that is created by Grammy winning producers and dance steps to form an addictive workout. Since its beginning in 2001, the Zumba program has become one of the worlds largest and most successful dance-fitness program in more than 125 countries!

What to wear: Comfortable clothing that allow movement and wick away moisture (ex. cool-max or dri-fit). Wear a good sports bra with great support! It's extremely important that you wear comfortable shoes with plenty of cushion and lateral support. Athletic shoes without tread such as Nike, Addidas, and Puma are usually preferable. Dance shoes also work. (the Zumba program sell their own shoes!) Bring a towel and water!

What not to wear: Running shoes or cross trainers due to too much tread and do not allow side-to-side movement.

Kickboxing

Kickboxing refers to a group of martial arts and stand-up combat sports based on kicking and punching, historically developed by karate. This activity is often practiced for general fitness, self-defense, or as a contact sport. It provides for an overall cardiovascular workout that aids in weight loss and tone! 

What to wear: Tops without restriction (preferably tank tops), supportive sports bra, and shorts or form fitted pants that hit above the ankle. What you wear on your feet depends on where you are training or taking your class. If you are in a gym you might be okay with your sneakers, but if you are working with a heavy bag you may want to be barefoot. If you are going to be punching a heavy bag you should also wear protective gloves. Again, fabrics with moisture wicking technology always work best :)

What not to wear: Constricting clothing, long sleeves, shorty shorts, pants that drag on the ground. Long pants can make it hard for you to complete kicks and short shorts can reveal a little too much! ;)

Water Aerobics

Performing strengthening exercises in shallow water allows you to target multiple muscle groups throughout the body. If you are looking for a low-impact workout with aerobic benefits, try abdominal water exercises to help slim you down! 

What to wear: A swimsuit that doesn't creep up your rear! The last thing you want is a wedgie! Most suits are made of a spandex/nylon blend, however you can also find polyester suits that work great for water aerobics. "Cross back" suits also work great because they provide flexibility and support. If you decide you are IN LOVE with your new workout in the water you think about investing in a "Chlorine proof" swim suit. Chlorine can wear out the material of your suit over time.  You should also wear either an old pair of running sneakers or aqua exercise shoes. The extra weight of your shoes will add more resistance to your workout. If you aren't a swimmer you might want to consider wearing a life-vest. Safety first!! ;)

What not to wear: You shouldn't wear a bikini or cotton clothing. 

Thanks for reading! Good luck to you on your new workout routines!! Spice it up!

xo,

Arlene Guerrero