Guest Blogger: Julie Germaine
You are feeling motivated and excited to crush your fitness goals. Maybe you’ve decided to lose weight, or you have physique goals that are competition-worthy! In addition to organizing your workout program and nutrition plan, there are a few other important steps to take before you starting running, lifting, or crunching away.
Having the right exercise gear will go a long way in helping you to be successful in achieving your desired results. If you aren’t properly prepared, you risk suffering a sudden injury, or hurting your body gradually over time in a way that will impede your long-term health and overall potential.
Here are 5 tips when shopping for items that will enhance your training, protect your body, and promote an incredible outcome for your daily efforts.
1. Comfortable and breathable clothing
If you are biking or running, be sure that your leggings or pants are somewhat fitted to prevent them from snagging in your gears or getting tangled up in your feet.
If you are participating in yoga, look for fabrics that wick away sweat to maintain comfort. Those of you who are choosing weight-lifting at home or at the gym will enjoy wearing items that allow you to see your physique to check proper form in the mirror and watch for subtle changes to the muscle shape and definition as the week’s progress.
I give you permission to splurge and buy some stylish outfits that compliment your figure – you’re going to want to like the reflection you’re staring at otherwise exercising will be a nuisance.
2. Footwear specialized for your activity
Beyond fashion, there are sport-specific reasons for the variety of sports shoes on the market. Then, within each brand, there are differences in fit, stability, materials, price, fame and style. If you’re getting started in a new activity, I’d suggest you get the proper shoe for that sport.
Take advantage of the in-store (I am writing this during the pandemic, so regional differences may/may not allow in-store shopping) sales assistants and their knowledge about the shoes, different brands and sport-specific features. Chatting with knowledgeable staff will direct you toward the right style for your chosen activity. For example, you may not realise as a runner you need to have more than just impact protection for your feet. As someone doing weight training, you may not realise a plush shoe is not stable or supportive enough for that sport.
Trying on different brands is also a great way to learn the right width and arch support your feet need. Go with what feels right.
3. Ripped abs are sexy, ripped hands, not so much
Get yourself a quality pair of workout gloves to prevent ugly and painful calluses from forming. This goes for weight training (even with home equipment), working out outside, biking riding or spin class – anything that requires grip will be easier if you have gloves on from the beginning.
4. Supportive sports bras are a necessity
You want to be comfortable and secure throughout a variety of movements, so try on different styles of tops and bras, and don’t forget to do some squatting and jumping in the change room to test them. Generally, if you are unsure, opt for the sports bras suitable for running as these tend to provide the most support.
5. Reusable water bottle
Drinking plenty of water each day is recommended for everyone, especially those who engage in physical activity. Do not skip this. You need water before, during and after your workout even if you are not dripping with sweat. Help your body perform, be sure to stay hydrated. There are even some new brands of reusable water bottles that track your daily intake and remind you via an app when you should be refilling! There is no excuse not to be properly hydrated.
Did I miss any tips? Let me know and tell me what your favourite brands are for your sports gear. Regardless of what brand you use, it is key to keep going consistently. Just get out there and get a workout in!
Visit Julie Germaine’s website for more information on nutrition, exercise and overall health to make achieving your fitness goals possible! www.juliegermaine.com