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Here's everything you need for your workout wardrobe, according to the pros
Starting a new exercise routine? Fitness experts say these staples will help you sweat in style.
You know how it is — when January comes around, everyone is all pumped up about getting in shape. But let's be real: Actually hitting the gym can be a struggle, especially during these dark, chilly winter days. I mean, my gym is right behind my apartment building, but I find myself making excuses to stay cozied up at home. The only thing that will actually get me to lace up my sneakers and step into that gym? A cute workout outfit.
As Peloton instructor Katie Wang puts it, the secret to finding that extra push you need is securing workout staples that make you feel your best — and getting rid of the rest. "Whether that's an unsupportive bra or a style that makes you feel less than 100%, if it doesn't serve you or make you feel confident and comfortable — get rid of it," she tells Yahoo.
Looking to refresh your activewear collection? We talked to three fitness experts to find out exactly what pieces you need to reach your goals. According to trainer Julie Lohre of Fitbody.com, the key to finding the right gym clothes is "investing in quality pieces upfront because it pays off in durability and performance. Plus, you'll feel so much better during workouts when your gear works as hard as you do."
Keep scrolling for the pro-approved activewear you need in your closet. We've also included some extra fitness favorites that will help you take your exercise sessions up a notch too.
Functional leggings
Leggings are the unsung heroes of workout wardrobes. They’re comfy, incredibly versatile and flatter just about every figure. Plus, they move seamlessly with you, no matter what type of activity you're tackling. The perfect pair will stay in place without bunching up or rolling down, and let's be honest — nobody wants to worry about whether their leggings are see-through during those intense squat sessions. While some popular styles can be on the pricey side, Lohre says they can be worth the investment since high-quality activewear can last for years if cared for properly. Her biggest tip? "Wash them on a cold, delicate cycle and air-dry to maintain their stretch and softness." If you're looking for even more durable options to add to your rotation, check out our editors' favorite leggings.
Shop their faves:
Nicole Chizzoniti, an instructor with Pulse Pilates, is a big fan of these buttery-soft leggings from Amazon. "CRZ Yoga offers a huge range of colors offered in tons of styles, so it's easy to mix and match — plus, their leggings have pockets."
Take it from us: These are hands down the softest, comfiest leggings you'll ever wear. They're ideal for low-impact classes like yoga or pilates or just hanging out at home. No wonder Lohre says she wears them nearly every day, calling them her "go-to for comfort and all-day wear."
"Affordable, squat-proof and durable," is how Lohre describes these popular leggings. And nearly 14,000 Amazon shoppers have given them their five-star seal of approval too.
Supportive sports bras
Lohre reminds us that "a proper sports bra is just as important" as a great pair of leggings. Whether you're out running errands or gearing up for a marathon, finding a sports bra that's both comfortable and supportive is key. You want it to fit snugly to keep your bust in place as you work out, but it shouldn't be so tight that your breasts start to pop out of the top or sides. According to Lohre, a good sports bra should last one to two years, depending on how much you wear it. But "once they lose elasticity or start to chafe, it's time for a replacement."
Shop their faves:
Chizzoniti says she lives in longline bras like this sleek, medium-compression option. The brand is one of her go-to choices for fashionable, functional activewear sets.
Lohre recommends this racerback bra from Vuori for medium- to high-impact activities because it holds everything in place, is moisture-wicking and comes with removable cups.
Featuring Nike's signature Dri-Fit technology, which extracts sweat from your body, this is Yahoo's pick for the best sports bra. It has three support levels to choose from, so you'll always have the right amount of compression for any kind of activity.
Layering pieces
When it comes to gym gear, you're probably going to want something to layer over your sports bra, whether it's a tank, a comfy T-shirt, a cozy hoodie or a stylish zip-up. Even if you plan on shedding layers once you get into the gym, having the right pieces to mix and match can really elevate your look. You can also try a matching set for a pulled-together look. "Never underestimate the power of a cute matching set! It can really motivate you to get into (or back into) your workout," Wang says.
Shop their faves:
"In the colder months you'll find me in a cropped hoodie," says Chizzoniti. Danskin makes her favorite styles because "they're super soft, with nice big hoods."
Yahoo readers and over 13,000 Amazon shoppers are big fans of this loose-fitting tank. It's quick-drying, stretchy and breathable. The mesh panel will help keep you cool while you sweat.
Cuteness and sportiness meet in this popular half-zip. We're big fans of the cozy topper, which has thumbholes on the cuffs to keep the sleeves from riding up. Its elastic zipper pull doubles as an emergency hair tie — genius!
Durable sneakers
If you're trying to take your workouts to the next level, the right sneakers are indispensable. The ideal pair can not only provide the support and comfort you need, but help prevent injuries along the way. If you're all about getting those steps in, go for a shoe with extra cushioning to soak up the impact. On the other hand, if weightlifting is more your style, seek a shoe with a flat, wide sole to keep your ankles from rolling. For more tips on finding the best gym shoes, check out our guide here.
Shop their faves:
Lohre says Brooks Ghosts are her "tried-and-true favorite for comfort and versatility whether you are strength training or running."
Hoka Cliftons are our choice for comfy walking shoes. "They're absolutely cloud-like," raved Yahoo Deputy Editor Izabella Zaydenberg. "They were the only shoes that didn't exacerbate my plantar fasciitis (especially when I walked for hours at Disneyland)."
These Nikes made our list of the best gym shoes thanks to the hyper lift plate in the heel that adds extra stability — crucial for preventing rolling while you're lifting weights. And the lace-lock system attaches to the tongue, so you don't have to worry about your laces coming undone or getting caught in anything as you work out.
Must-have extras
Now that you've got the basics covered, take things up a notch with these expert-approved accessories.
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Chizzoniti says these ankle and wrist weights "add that extra fire that you wouldn't think you could ever get out of a 1-2 pound weight." (Plus, who knew weights could look so cute?)
Grippy socks are a must for barre or pilates classes because they prevent you from slipping and sliding on slick surfaces or machines. Chizzoniti is a fan of Pointe Studio crew socks. "They offer tons of options with really cute designs."
Lohre recommends these running socks because of how comfortable they are and how good they are at wicking away sweat. "You don't realize how much good socks matter until you try these," she says. "They offer a no-slip, moisture-wicking fit that keeps your feet happy during long workouts."
"Whether I'm tracking my workout or teaching class, my Apple Watch is a complete necessity," Chizzoniti tells us. The Series 10 offers 18 hours of battery life, and you can use it to count steps, send texts and make calls. Siri is built right in, and you can just raise your arm to activate it, even if you're offline.
