Does the fit of your athletic clothing affect your workout?

Yes it does!  In my last post I wrote about some of the details to think about when choosing tops to workout in.  Now for the bottom side of the issue!  The choices are varied for what to wear on the bottom, but each essentially fall into one of three categories: shorts, pants, or capris.  The two key factors for a perfect fitting bottom is the fabric and fit.  The fabric needs to be thick enough to cover any imperfections.  It also should be stretchy and offer some compression, which "smooths" you out - flattering your curves.  It's very much worth it to splurge on a great pair of workout pants.  The better the fabric, the better the fit.  Also, they should hold up for years!  Expect to spend at least $75 for a good pair of workout pants or capris. 

Capris and Pants
My favorite are capris that are very fitted, actually tight, or those with compression.  This fit is gaining in popularity and I am a huge fan!  Of course the amount of compression offered differs by manufacturer and also by item.  One of the pioneers in this field of compressive athletic apparel is CW-X. Their garments offer A LOT of compression.   In a nut shell, the compression slows the onset of fatigue in your muscles, helps your body absorb shock better, and also aids in quicker recovery when worn after exercise.  But the BEST part is that they make you look about 10 pounds thinner!  SO forget the baggy, cotton capris.  Get a pair of slimming capris or pants that actually make you look thinner, which will make you feel good about yourself, which will motivate you to workout!  These capris and pants are great for long distance running, when muscle fatigue is more on a concern.  Though I wear them for short- and long-distance runs.

For capris that offer some compression but are not as tight as the CW-X brand, my favorite are the New Power Capris by ellasport.  They "smooth you out" and flatter your curves because they fabric offers a moderate amount of compression.  The zip-pocket in the back is made of Coolmax mesh, which breathes really well.  The placement of this pocket is perfect because it literally cuts your butt in half.  Who doesn't want their butt to look smaller?! :) These capris are perfect for running, Spin class, abs class, strength training, whatever you love to do!

In the colder months, yoga pants by lululemon are my favorite to wear over my capris to and from the gym and are also great to wear when running errands.  I think they're too baggy at the bottom for yoga, but they have other pants that aren't as baggy and are great for yoga.

In my opinion, baggy pants are not the best option when it comes to looking and feeling good about yourself when you're working out.  After all, the thinnest part of most women is from their knees down.  Why cover it up!?  Perhaps they are more comfortable to some people, but I think if most women tried on a great pair of tighter fitting capris or pants they would look great, and feel great to boot!  The fabric is key, however.  So maybe you can find a pair of pants that are more fitted at the top and looser at the bottom that would be flattering.  lululemon is a good source for such pants.

Shorts

I personally do not like working out in shorts but many women can't imagine working out in anything else!  The Nike Tempo running shorts seem to be the most popular.  Don't worry if you hate shorts, there are plenty of other options out there!

Next post is about the Workout Skirt!