Deciding what to wear for a workout doesn’t need to be complicated. For first timers, stepping into the gym can feel daunting, and there’s already plenty to think about without worrying about your outfit. Even seasoned gym-goers can find themselves second-guessing what to wear, whether it’s based on the weather, the type of workout planned, or simply the urge to update their gym wardrobe.
That’s where the right gym gear comes in. When you’re moving your body, comfort is essential. Your clothes should support your movement, keep you feeling confident, and look good while doing it.
Whether you’re a powerlifter, a Pilates fanatic, or a cardio lover, we’ve created a go-to guide to help you decide what to wear to the gym – breaking down the best outfits for different workout styles, plus the essentials to have on hand every time you train.
What to wear for different types of workouts
The first step in deciding what to wear to the gym is knowing the type of workout you’ll be doing. While factors like weather and personal style matter, your workout should always come first. Choosing comfortable, functional clothing will give you freedom of movement and help you perform at your best.
If you’re just getting started, it can also help to focus on building a workout routine you can stick to, as you’ll already know what type of workout you’re doing each day. And while you’re at it, check out our guide on when you should exercise to get the most out of your weekly schedule.
Cardio
Treadmill warriors, runners, and cross-training lovers – this one’s for you. When it comes to cardio, breathable fabrics are best. These workouts naturally increase body heat and sweat, so heavy, thick, or restrictive clothing can quickly become uncomfortable. Opt for lightweight, sweat-wicking materials and looser-fitting gym tops to help keep your body cool. For bottoms, choose a secure fit you won’t need to adjust mid-workout, or look for styles with an adjustable waistband for added comfort and support.
The best clothing items for cardio:
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Lightweight tops, shorts or leggings made with moisture-wicking fabric
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Bottoms with an adjustable waistband
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Cushioned running shoes
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Cross training shoes, like the Dropset 4, for high-intensity and mixed cardio workouts
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Sports bras suited for high-impact activity
If you’re new to cardio, these beginner tips for cardio workouts can help you get started confidently and help you stay consistent.
Strength training
If you spend most of your workout pumping iron, your outfit matters a lot more than you might think. When it comes to resistance, weight or functional training, what you wear can directly impact both comfort and performance.
For your top half, strength-training gear should be durable and supportive. Opt for snug-fitting t-shirts or tanks that move with your body without restricting it. Darker colors are a smart choice to ensure opacity, especially when stretching or lifting. Look for moisture-wicking fabrics to help keep you cool and prevent sweat from weighing you down. Make sure your t-shirts aren’t too baggy, as this can distract you or get caught on equipment, which can interrupt your workout.
The best clothing items for strength training:
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Snug t-shirts or tank tops that support natural movement
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Durable, supportive fabrics that hold their shape during lifting
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Moisture-wicking materials to keep you cool during heavy sets
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Darker-colored tops for added coverage and confidence when stretching or lifting
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Secure, supportive sports bras suitable for low- to medium-impact training
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Fitted bottoms that won’t shift, bunch, or get caught on equipment
If you’re combining cardio with weight training, our guide on whether to do cardio before or after weights can help you plan your workout order.
Boxing and martial arts
If martial arts are more your scene, choose clothing that is easy to move in. Light, flexible pieces are essential, as your outfit should never feel restrictive or get in the way. With boxing and martial arts involving fast, powerful movements, your outfit needs to keep up with you. Opt for secure, close-fitting pieces that won’t ride up or twist during movement and look for durable fabrics that can withstand repeated impact and intense training sessions.
The best clothing items for boxing and martial arts:
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Lightweight, flexible tops that allow unrestricted movement
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Quick-dry materials to manage heat and moisture during intense sessions
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Secure, close-fitting clothing that won’t ride up or twist
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Durable materials designed to withstand repeated impact and friction
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Supportive sports bras that stay in place during fast, explosive movements
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Shorts or leggings that allow for unrestricted movements
Pilates & Yoga
Pilates and yoga involve plenty of stretching and fluid movement, so your outfit should feel light and unrestricted. Whether you prefer mat-based sessions or studio equipment, check out our guide on mat vs reformer Pilates to help you choose the right style and the right gear.
Supple fabrics work best for these low-impact workouts, allowing you to move comfortably through each pose. Choose a low-impact sports bra paired with cycling shorts or soft, flexible gym leggings that stretch with your body. A secure, close fit helps prevent shifting or rolling during transitions, so you can focus on your movement and balance without distraction.
If you’re looking for more detailed guidance, this guide on what to wear for yoga breaks down outfit choices for different experience levels and yoga styles.
The best clothing items for Pilates and yoga:
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Soft and light tops that feel gentle against the skin
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Low-impact sports bras offering light support and comfort
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Leggings or cycling shorts that stretch with your body
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Close-fitting pieces that won’t shift, roll, or ride up during movement
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Seamless or smooth fabrics to reduce irritation during longer sessions
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Clothing that allows full range of motion for stretching and floor work
Hybrid training and Cross training
Because hybrid workouts like cross training or circuit training combine a variety of exercises, it’s important to be prepared for anything. Snug-fitting gym leggings or cycling shorts are a safe choice, offering comfort and flexibility across different movements. As long as your outfit is light, comfortable, and easy to move in, it’ll work well for this type of workout.
The best clothing items for hybrid training and Cross training:
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Stretchy, flexible fabrics that won’t restrict jumping, lifting, or running
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Secure sports bras offering medium support for mixed-impact workouts
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Clothing that transitions comfortably between different exercises without adjustment
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Stable cross-training shoes built for agility and control during mixed workouts, such as the Dropset 4
Gym essentials
No matter the type of workout you’re doing, certain gym essentials make training more comfortable and enjoyable. From supportive clothing to the right footwear, these basics help you move with confidence in the gym.
Tops and tanks
The top you wear plays a key role in your gym outfit. If you’re strength training – especially on upper-body days – it’s important to have unrestricted movement, comfort, and cooling fabrics that won’t limit your joints or muscles. Pick fitted t-shirts or tanks that move with your body without feeling restrictive and choose moisture-wicking materials to help manage sweat during heavier lifts. Avoid overly loose or heavy tops, as excess fabric can become distracting or get in the way of your workout.
Comfortable bottoms
Comfortable bottoms are essential for any workout, but they’re especially important on leg-focused training days. Exercises like squats, lunges, deadlifts, and leg presses require full range of motion, so your bottoms should support movement without restriction.
Many women prefer high-waisted leggings, as a secure, close fit helps minimize friction and reduce chafing during repetitive movements. Some leggings, like the ones in our Optime range, are made with Adimove technology for a light, next-to-skin feel that’s ideal for intense cardio sessions. The Optime Workout Full Length Leggings offer full leg coverage for colder days, while keeping you cool during workouts.
Sweatpants can also be a great choice for strength training days, particularly in colder weather, offering warmth without sacrificing comfort or flexibility. Soft Lux pants keep your workout comfy with a relaxed fit, soft feel, and elastic cuffs that make it easy to get that last rep without distraction.
Sneakers and socks
Believe it or not, choosing the right socks and shoes for the gym is more important than you might think. Athletic-specific socks are a smart choice, as they help manage sweat, reduce friction, and lower the risk of blisters during longer or higher-intensity workouts.
When it comes to shoes, running shoes are ideal for cardio-focused sessions. They’re designed with cushioning and shock absorption to support repetitive movements like running, jumping, and treadmill work, helping to reduce impact on your joints. For speed-driven workouts, lightweight shoes like adidas Adizero shoes are a great choice, providing responsive cushioning that helps you stay quick and energized.
For weightlifting and strength training, stability is key. Flatter, firmer trainers provide a more grounded feel, improving balance and power during lifts such as squats and deadlifts by keeping your feet closer to the floor. Even better, try weightlifting shoes specifically designed for maximum support when strength training.
Cross training shoes are perfect for cardio and strength-training workouts combined. Designed to support a wide range of movements, they provide a balance of cushioning, stability, and responsiveness for activities like circuit training, HIIT, and strength workouts. With Energyrods supporting the heel and a stable Repetitor foam midsole, Dropset 4 Training Shoes help you feel locked in when lifting heavy.
For a helping hand on choosing the best gym shoes for your workouts, check out our guide on what kind of shoes you should wear to the gym.
Sports bras
Light support sports bras are for gentle workouts. These bras offer light support with flexible fabrics – ideal for activities like yoga or Pilates.
For medium impact activities, like cycling, strength training, or low-intensity cardio, medium support sports bras are the way to go. These provide a higher level of support through compression, while still prioritizing comfort.
Naturally, the more intense the exercise, the more support you’ll need. High support sports bras are essential for activities involving running, cross training, or sports like football and tennis – anything where both feet are leaving the ground. These bras offer maximum support, using firm compression to minimize movement and reduce discomfort during intense exercise. And don’t worry – you don’t need to sacrifice comfort: the Optime High Workout Support Bra is built for reliable support with quick-drying material to keep cool while you power through your workout.
You can also explore different sports bra styles, such as racerback, cross-back, high-neck, compression, or V-neck designs. With so many options available, make sure you take the time to find what best suits your workout needs, comfort levels, and personal style.
Dressing right for the weather
Most gyms are indoors and kept at a consistent temperature, but it’s still important to consider the journey to and from your workout. When it’s colder outside, you might want to layer up more so you’re warm until you’re fully warmed up. When it’s hotter, you’ll want to ditch the layers to prevent overheating.
A great rule of thumb is to layer up if you’re unsure, as you can always remove layers once you start to warm up.
Other things to consider
Staying hydrated is essential for performance and recovery. Bringing a reusable water bottle ensures you can sip throughout your workout, especially during longer or higher-intensity sessions.
A headband can help keep sweat out of your eyes and hair off your face, making it easier to stay focused – particularly during cardio or high-intensity training.
It’s best to leave jewelry at home when training. Rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings can get caught on equipment, cause discomfort, or pose a safety risk during exercise.
Weightlifting gloves can help protect your hands and improve grip, while lifting straps may be useful for heavier pulls such as deadlifts or rows, helping reduce strain on your grip during strength training.
Gym wear do's and don’ts
Do's
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Wear what feels comfortable to you: Comfort should always come first. Choose gym wear that makes you feel confident, supported, and able to move freely. If something rubs, rides up, or feels restrictive, it’s likely to distract you from your workout.
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Choose your outfit based on the workout you’ll be doing: Different workouts call for different clothing. Thinner fabrics are ideal for cardio, while strength training benefits from supportive, durable pieces that allow a full range of motion. Thinking ahead about your session helps ensure your outfit works with your body, not against it.
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Layer up when you’re unsure: If you’re not sure what you’ll need, it’s always better to be prepared. Layers like hoodies, zip-ups, or long-sleeve tops can keep you warm before and after your workout and can easily be removed once you warm up.
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Warm up and warm down: As with any type of exercise, make sure you’re stretching and warming up to protect your body from injury when working out, no matter what you wear.
Don’ts
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Wear uncomfortable or impractical clothing: Pick clothing designed for exercise, as everyday items won’t offer the comfort or support you need. Jeans, open-toed shoes, or heavy fabrics can restrict movement and make workouts feel less comfortable. Leaving heavy jewelry or bulky accessories at home can also help you move more freely and stay focused during training.
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Dress only for style: While it’s great to feel good in what you’re wearing, style shouldn’t come at the expense of comfort or performance. You’re at the gym to move your body and get the most out of your workout. Luckily, gym wear doesn’t have to be one or the other – you can be both comfortable and stylish with the right pieces.
Now that you know what to wear for every type of workout, it’s time to put it into action. Whether you’re easing into fitness for the first time or perfecting your exercise routine, start by matching your outfit with the workout you’ll be doing. Breathable fabrics for cardio, supportive pieces for strength training and flexible clothing for yoga and Pilates is a great place to start. Then, layer clothing based on the weather and choose footwear that supports your training style.
Most importantly, wear something that makes you feel good! If you’re ready to hit the gym, discover our gym collection and explore pieces built for comfort, movement and performance.