The best type of clothing for you will depend on what exercise
you are doing, what it is for (general fitness, specific event) and how
serious you are about continuing with it.
If you want to start jogging, but only in good weather to keep
yourself fit, and therefore may stop at any point, you will probably not
want to spend a lot of money purchasing all the latest high tech running
gear.
However, if you intend to train for a competition such as the marathon
or some other sport, and will therefore be training upwards of three times
a week, it is important that you do have the correct clothing to ensure
peak performance and safety.
For the beginner, you want to choose exercise clothing that is
comfortable but practical. The more up to date fabrics such as CoolMax
wick the moisture away from your body, so you do not become overheated,
cold or clammy. Cotton is fine, but remember that it hold moisture so will
become damp and heavy. It is best to choose lightweight cotton.
If you go to classes or the gym, it is up to you whether you want
to get kitted up in head to toe lycra, or just a t-shirt and shorts (headbands
from the 1980?s is a definite no-no). However, you will need to stay
cool and comfy. If you are using equipment, ensure your clothes are not
too baggy and get caught up. For a high impact aerobics class, you may
need something lighter than tracksuit bottoms. Lycra shorts are good as
they allow for plenty of body movement without restriction.
For specific sports, it will be best to choose clothes that are
specially made for it. This will ensure peak performance for you.
Running
This will depend on the weather. If it is mild or warm weather, then you
must dress to stay cool. It may be more comfortable to wear a vest instead
of a t-shirt.
Cotton t-shirts can have stitching that rubs on you, and as cotton absorbs
moisture, they can become wet and soggy. An alternative to cotton are the
new wicking fabrics. These are designed to draw sweat away from your body
and out to the surface where it can evaporate. These materials are more
expensive than cotton, but worth the investment if you are serious about
your running.
In cold winter weather, you will need to dress to stay warm while running.
The key to warmth and comfort is layering, as air gets trapped between
the
layers and acts as insulation. It is also easy to remove a layer as
you start to heat up.
The normal amount of layers is three:
- The base layer should be light wicking material to keep the sweat
away from your body. It should fit snugly without being restrictive.
- The
next layer should be a lightweight long sleeved top, preferably also
made from wicking material. It should fit loosely over the base layer.
- If
it is very cold or raining then the top layer should be a loose fitting,
breathable, wind and water- proof jacket.
- On your legs, you may want something more than shorts, so opt for
lightweight trousers or leggings.
- These come fleece lined for
really cold weather, and waterproof for wet weather.
- As most
heat is lost from the head and hands, in very cold weather wear a hat
and gloves.
- It is best to choose fleece ones as they are warm
but allow the skin to breathe and offer some protection from the wind.
Sports Clothing Essentials
Socks
You may think that socks are a very minor detail when running, but they
can make all the difference, especially if you are running a long distance.
Choose synthetic materials that keep moisture away from your feet. Good
socks will keep your feet warm, dry, supported and cushioned.
You can get blister socks that reduce friction, ones with extra padding
around the heel and ball and socks with a tight weave middle for extra
foot support.
Shorts
The most comfortable shorts are made from Supplex nylon, and are shaped
to minimise rubbing. Alternatively choose shorts made from lycra or a wicking
material.
Women should always invest in a good sports bra, as running is high impact
activity.
For Safety if you are running in the dark, ensure your clothes
have reflective strips on them and that they are made from bright colours,
as it is very important to be seen.
