The winter is coming that means that you need to take caution of how to dress. Gym goers may find that the cold weather offers a tricky problem. How do you dress for the gym while take precautions against the cold weather? Do you wear your gym t-shirts and other gym clothing, or do you need to change your workout wardrobe? Here is what you need to know about how to dress for your winter workout.
Don’t Let The Thermostat Fool You
The first thing that you must realize is that the thermostat of the gym may fool you into believing that the environment is safe for your summer wear. While the conditions may be warmer than outside, this does not mean that the temperature should be treated in the same way. Just because there is not a wind factor does not mean that you cannot become sick if you do not adhere to proper gym attire. So what should you do?
Wearing layers is the key to dressing for the gym. This allows your body to sweat as needed and lock in body heat. Layers also allow you to shed and to put on clothing as necessary. You will want to have three layers of clothing. However, this depends upon the temperature and your body type.
Layer One: The Base Layer
When choosing your gym clothing for the winter, it is important that you build up your layers strategically. The base layer should be clothing which is moisture-wicking. This means that the fabric helps the sweat to evaporate rather than absorbing the moisture. For this use spandex, nylon tights, and other polypropylene gym clothing. Avoid using cotton on your base layer, as this absorbs moisture and may lead to lowering the body temperature. Ensure that this layer is appropriate for the gym as you may want to shed other layers, depending upon the temperature.
Your base layer should focus on the feet and the overall body. Like with the main body, you will want to have non-cotton based socks for the gym. Socks made of drynamix and mohair are great for the gym. So long as the socks are water-resistant, you will be fine. Gym shoes should be breathable to avoid any moisture build up during your workout.
Layer Two: The Main Layer
The second layer is the insulation layer. This is where you choose gym clothing, which is fleece or cotton blended. You want to lock in the warmth of your body. Keep in mind that if you sweat a great deal during your workouts, that the cotton or fleece will absorb the moisture. Have either additional gym clothing on hand, or you may wish to use gym clothes which are sweat wicking.
The best middle layer is made from micro fleece and has mesh sides or zippers, allowing for various levels of breathability. This clothing does not need to be as close to the body as your first layer, but does not need to be loose fitting. Remember, you are insulating your body temperature.
The Outer Layer
This is a shedding layer, meaning that you can opt to take this layer off if your gym conditions are suitable for a safe and comfortable workout if done. Therefore, try to find clothing which is easily removed, such as those with zippers or loose-fitting hoodies. The goal is to lock in the warmth when needed, but to have enough flexibility to work out without feeling constrained.
Choose materials which breathe for your external layer. Heavier materials such as cotton and fleece are ok for the outside layer, as the clothing can be shed if it becomes too wet from moisture or sweat. The best outer layers are those which repel sweat. But, as the other two layers work to evaporate and repel sweat while holding in moisture, the third layer gives you a bit of leniency.
Other Considerations
Every gym is different, and the winter conditions will vary depending upon where you live. You may substitute a Besides your basic three layers, you will need to focus on the feet, hands, and head. Hands should be covered in the winter months. Gloves should be of a microfiber, insulating but not restricting movement or grip. Headwear can be of cotton or fleece. Just be cautious of the amount of moisture that is locked into the material.
Keep yourself safe this winter by dressing in the layers and gym clothing. Make sure that all the clothing that you choose allows for movement and comfort in the gym. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy your workout.