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Sportswear guide for women: what to choose to be practical and stylish?

30 August 2023 4 min read

Autumn is the season when, after the traditional summer break, we return to gyms or independent workouts. Long-time trainer, sportswear model, and style enthusiast Agnė Mickevičiūtė-Butienė shares practical advice for women on what to choose for different types of training.

Most of us choose both everyday and sportswear while also considering our personal style: some prefer darker shades, others wear bright colors, some like training in shorts, while others choose longer leggings or pants. However, according to “Lemon Gym” trainer and sportswear model A. Mickevičiūtė-Butienė, there are certain rules when choosing workout clothing, what works for calm workouts may not be suitable for high-intensity training, and what is suitable for outdoor exercise may not always be appropriate indoors. It is important to pay attention to material, fit, and details.

High waist – for flexibility training

When choosing clothing for flexibility-based workouts such as yoga, stretching, or slow and strong classes, A. Mickevičiūtė-Butienė emphasizes the importance of the waistband height. First of all, high-waisted leggings provide comfort during wide-range movements. In addition, during low-intensity workouts when the body does not warm up as quickly, such leggings help protect the lower back area from injury.

The interviewee also draws women’s attention to the choice of a sports bra. “A properly selected bra makes a significant difference during training. It is very important that it is made of soft material, without additional padding. A sports bra should fit snugly and not cause pressure anywhere. For women with larger breasts, it is advisable to choose higher-coverage sports bras that fully support the chest, fit securely at the back, and are made of thicker material” shares the long-time trainer and model.

The interviewee also draws women’s attention to choosing the right sports bra. “A properly chosen bra makes a significant difference during training. It is very important that it is made of soft material, without additional padding. A sports bra should fit snugly and not feel tight anywhere. For women with larger breasts, it is recommended to choose higher-coverage sports bras that fully cover the chest, fit securely at the back, and are made of thicker material,” shares the long-time trainer and model.

Wide-leg pants – save them for dance workouts

“If we focus mainly on style when choosing casual clothing, that approach doesn’t work when going to the gym, because bulky zippers and various decorative accessories can restrict free movement. Wide-leg pants may be suitable for dance workouts, but they are not appropriate for training in a gym, as they are not only uncomfortable but also unsafe. Keep in mind that wide, oversized pants can get caught in gym equipment, you can step on them and injure yourself, and when performing exercises in such clothing, the full range of motion is not visible,” comments A. Mickevičiūtė-Butienė.

Clothing with drawstrings and details is more suitable for outdoor activities

A common design of sports pants or shorts includes drawstrings, which are usually meant to prevent them from slipping down. However, according to the “Lemon Gym” trainer, this type of clothing is more often intended for training or other active outdoor activities, such as rollerblading or running.

A. Mickevičiūtė-Butienė also points out that for outdoor workouts, just like indoor training, it is important to choose breathable sportswear, as well as models adapted to different weather conditions so you do not get cold.

“Don’t forget that outdoor clothing can have long sleeves. And if you like to work out while listening to music, you can choose clothing with special pockets for your earphones and phone. But keep in mind – all these details can interfere when performing exercises on a mat: zippers can press during sit-ups, drawstrings can be uncomfortable when lying on your stomach, and various pockets or inserts may cause discomfort while exercising,” the trainer notes.

The length of shorts depends on the type of workout

When considering which shorts to choose, Butienė encourages paying attention to ensuring that their length is sufficiently “safe.” “If you are choosing shorts for running, the best option is a short, very fitted model so they don’t restrict movement or affect speed. If your workout includes deep, high-amplitude movements, it is better to choose longer shorts,” advises A. Mickevičiūtė-Butienė.

Speaking about sports tops, the trainer and model A. Mickevičiūtė-Butienė says that sleeveless tops are the most comfortable choice, as they do not restrict arm movement and reduce discomfort when sweating. Stiff, non-stretchy fabric, as well as inappropriate sleeve or trouser length, can affect the results you aim to achieve.

Women’s approach to style while exercising is changing

A. Mickevičiūtė-Butienė says that over her many years of experience, she has noticed a shift in how women perceive themselves and beauty during workouts.

“Previously, women often came to training sessions wearing heavy makeup, and their outfits featured many different accessories, headbands, and wristbands. Nowadays, however, most women tend to prioritize comfort, practicality, and quality. I believe this is a very positive trend. After all, sport is about good mood, relaxation, and not harming your skin, body, or overall well-being. The most important thing is your mindset and having a good time, and properly chosen, practical clothing will only make it easier to achieve your goals,” says A. Mickevičiūtė-Butienė.