gym gear

DRIED & TESTED
Heard about Dri-Fit? Of course, you have. After all, it’s the latest in gym gear. It’s a fabric that keeps moisture at bay and has just enough spandex to hug your body at the right places. Most gym clothes like this Dri-Fit gear (left) from Nike have a support inner-bra to give women ultimate hold and lift.

COOL CLUES
Get ready for some ClimaCool workouts. Developed by Adidas, the fabric regulates your body temperature. So, no matter matter how strenuous the workout, you can actually keep your cool, as the apparel conducts heat and sweat and allows air to circulate close to the skin.

WEIGHT ON
If you are into heavy weight training, make sure you are geared up right to avoid injury. Gym undergarments should have supporters, which should be preferably tighter. Shoes should have strong shock resistance to ease pressure off ankles, knees, thighs and hips. And always wear a belt for good back support.

Looking fit is the easiest way to be en vogue. After all, anything and everything goes with a fit body. But make sure your gym gear is as fit as you. Because the right apparel can actually enhance your perfomance and make your workouts safe and more beneficial.
PERFORMING BONUS
Agreed, you love your 10-year-old, almostsecond-skin cotton tee but after just 10 minutes on the treadmill, you’ll end up like a wet rag. A cotton tee may be comfy but it collects moisture and doesn’t dry up so soon. Fitness industry insider Rajiv Mehta says, “The most important aspects of gym wear are breathability and stretchability. One should choose fabrics that have been
technologically enhanced
with moisture management. This helps wick away the moisture when you perspire and keeps your body dry and helps it to breathe well.” Agrees fitness expert Leena Mogre, who advises that tees or vests for workouts should not be regular cotton. “Always look for clothes like the ones worn by professional sportspersons as they are designed to regulate body temperature and enhance your performance.” Yet, keeping the hot Indian climate in mind, she suggests practical cotton blends with a little spandex for flexibility.
FITS ME WELL
Though shop shelves are overflowing with some dazzling sportswear, it doesn’t mean you have to go crazy on the colours. Actor Rahul Dev, who has now been working out religiously for over 16 years, has stuck to his two-colour theme. He prefers wearing a light tee with a dark lower or vice-versa. One can even team two bright shades but
the overall wardrobe should not exceed three colours, otherwise you’ll look like a human rainbow! As for the fit, Rahul feels the fitter the better. “It’s good to see how your muscles respond to your workout,” he says. “Seeing them all pumped up and toned eggs me on.” Avoid loose-fit clothes, as they can get entangled in the equipment. Quips Leena, “Plunging necklines may also cause some gym accidents!”
SHOE IT TO THEM
Every fitness activity needs a specially designed shoe. A good shoe not only takes the stress off your feet but also supports your ankles, knees, thighs and hips during a rigorous workout. Rajiv advises on cross trainers, as they are best suited for a gym workout, involving cardio and weight training. “A cross trainer has a wide, stable outsole and midsole, with great cushioning and support which makes it very versatile and suited for a gym,” he says. So, get going to make sure your gym gear is fine and fit.
ATHLETIC AROMA Don’t let your fellow gymmers suffer from your body odour! Always carry a deodorant. But make sure not to spray on too much, as that’s also a turn-off.
RULEBOOK
While it is acceptable for women to flaunt brands, men’s apparel shouldn’t scream labels! And don’t wear too many colours. At max, three colours.
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