Getting in the recommended 30 to 45 minutes of exercise every day can be a challenge. Throw in sore muscles and a rash, and it's almost impossible to muster up the motivation to get off the couch.
"It's hard enough to get yourself motivated, especially in the winter when it's dark and cold outside," said Eric Jungbluth, sales associate at Lincoln Running Company, 1213 Q St.. "Wearing the right clothing is going to make you more comfortable. Wearing the wrong clothing is just another hurdle to get over."
The proper fitness attire can help enhance performance, but more importantly it makes working out more comfortable and helps prevent injury. Every layer of clothing has a purpose, starting with undergarments, moving on to base and outer layers and, finally, wearing a proper pair of shoes.
"Wearing the wrong underwear is the pits," said Diane Sylofski, graduate student in instruction of campus recreation at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Comfortable undergarments are the first step of proper fitness attire. The type and duration of the activity is a big factor when choosing special undergarments.
"For the most part, choose something that is comfortable and something supportive for the guys," Sylofski said.
For women, sports bras should match up with normal bra sizes. In the store, move around a bit and jump up and down when trying on a bra, Sylofski advised. The bra should feel snug but not too restrictive.
After deciding on the proper undergarments, the next step to a comfortable workout is choosing appropriate outer clothing.
The biggest factor is layering, said Mel Sinnard, sales associate at Moose's Tooth Outdoor Co., 720 N. 27th St., and graduate student in leadership education at UNL. Choose a synthetic base layer that wicks, or pulls, sweat away from the body.
Next, Sinnard advised choosing another layer with moisture-wicking technology and finally adding a top shell layer that is water- or wind-resistant.
"If all the layers are working together," Sinnard said, "all moisture will be transported to the top layer to evaporate and you will stay dry."
Even indoor fitness activities can benefit from moisture-wicking fabric.
"Cotton is a very absorbent fabric," Jungbluth said, "but it holds the water in the fabric and takes a very long time to dry."
This can lead to uncomfortable workouts with sweaty, clammy clothing. While clothing with wicking technology may cost more, the improved comfort is worth the extra dollar.
Clothing size and style is something that everyone has to determine to fit their body shape. However, wearing clothing that's too big or baggy can inhibit movement.
"Wearing fitted clothing also lets you or the instructor see how you're moving your body," Sylofski said. "This way you can see if your form is correct."
The last part of proper workout attire is choosing appropriate shoes.
Shoes may be the most important part of workout attire, as they can prevent injury and sore muscles when used properly. The key is to find shoes that fit correctly.
"You can't just buy a shoe because it looks good," Jungbluth said. "Your shoes are going to affect the biomechanics of how you run."
It is important to go somewhere that measures the foot in order to find a shoe that reflects different walking and running styles.
It is also important to choose shoes that fit the activity. If doing aerobics, choose an aerobic shoe; if running, choose a running shoe.
"You wouldn't want to wear aerobic shoes to play basketball because they wouldn't provide the proper support," Sylofski said. "If you can only have one pair, choose a good cross-trainer."
When it comes to picking workout attire, don't be afraid to ask questions. There are many different products, cuts and styles made to fit different body types. Finding the most comfortable workout clothing may take a little trial and error, but asking experts at a store can help speed up the process.
"If you're looking for something particular," Sinnard said, "ask questions before purchasing so you're sure to get the right product."
While finding the time to work out may still be a hassle, when suited in the proper attire, those recommended minutes of exercise won't be such an ordeal.
ashleypritchard@dailynebraskan.com
