What Kind of a Shirt Should I Wear While Working Out?

Assuming you’re not a buff dude set on sharing your six pack abs with the world, an appropriate shirt is essential for a comfortable workout. One factor to consider when selecting exercise wear is the weather. This is obviously especially important if your workout takes place outside. But even if you exercise in your home or at a gym, fabric choice is important; choose a material that breathes. Finally, those who exercise in clothes that are stylish and figure-flattering get an ego boost as well as an endorphin boost, which can lead to a better workout.

  1. Dress for the Temperature

    • If you’re exercising in a crowded, hot gym, pick a shirt that’s lightweight and sleeveless or has short sleeves. Women have the option of wearing a halter-style sports top. If you’re exercising outdoors, consider wearing layers. Although you might start off chilly on your autumn or winter run, your body temperature will increase with activity. A sweat jacket that can be tied around the waist if you get too warm is a practical option.

    Fabrics That Breathe

    • Cotton is a lightweight, comfortable fabric commonly used for workout gear. It’s also breathable, which means that it lets air in and lets moisture out. You don’t always have to purchase pure cotton, however. Cotton polyester blends are just as comfortable and the addition of polyester means the fabric will be less likely to wrinkle.

    Outfits That Flatter

    • How you feel about your appearance while you’re exercising can have a powerful effect on the quality and length of your workout. If you feel you look good, you’re more likely to hang in there with the exercise, which then becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Wear clothing that is snug-fitting, but not too tight, in colors and styles that flatter.

    Visibility and Other Variables

    • If you’re running outdoors at dusk or later, consider safety and wear a shirt that’s white or another light color, or is accented with reflective tape. Other variables to consider when selecting a shirt include, for example, if you’re a woman, selecting a shirt that offers enough coverage and support. Or, you may want to pick a shirt that’s appropriate for the workout you’re doing that particular day. For example, if you’re doing a workout that focuses on the upper body, you may want to pick a shirt that reveals your arms more, so that you or your trainer can more easily tell if you’re doing the exercise properly.