My Favorite Workout Clothes
Over the years, I’ve learned that what you wear to work out can make a bigger difference than people sometimes realize. Workout clothes don’t have to be trendy, expensive, or perfectly coordinated, but they do need to be comfortable, supportive, and something you actually feel good wearing. When you feel comfortable in your clothes, it’s a lot easier to focus on movement instead of constantly adjusting straps, pulling at waistbands, or wondering if something is going to stay in place.
Because I teach and practice Pilates regularly, I’ve figured out what works best for me, and what definitely doesn’t. These are a few of the things I look for when choosing workout clothes and the pieces I tend to reach for most often.
Leggings That Stay Put
If there’s one thing I’m particular about, it’s leggings. Pilates involves a lot of movement: rolling, stretching, bending, and balancing. Leggings need to stay where they’re supposed to without constantly sliding down or needing to be adjusted. A high waistband usually works best for me because it feels supportive and secure. I also look for fabric that has a good amount of stretch but still feels structured. Leggings that are too thin can feel flimsy, while ones that are too thick can feel restrictive. Somewhere in the middle is perfect.
Comfortable, Supportive Sports Bras
A good sports bra makes a big difference in how comfortable a workout feels. For Pilates, I tend to prefer bras that feel supportive without being overly tight. Since the movements are controlled rather than high-impact, I don’t need the same level of compression I might want for running or jumping workouts. The best ones are the ones you almost forget you’re wearing.
Fitted but Flexible Tops
When it comes to tops, I usually gravitate toward something fitted but still comfortable. In Pilates, instructors often look at alignment and body position to help guide movement. Wearing something that isn’t overly loose makes it easier to see how the body is moving and helps maintain good form. That said, the fabric still needs to feel soft and breathable. If something feels stiff or restrictive, I’m much less likely to reach for it.
Layers for Before and After Class
Even though Pilates itself warms the body up quickly, I always like having a comfortable layer for before and after class. A light sweatshirt or zip-up jacket is perfect for that. It’s especially nice during early mornings or cooler months when the studio might feel a little chilly at first. Plus, there’s something comforting about wrapping up in a soft layer once a workout is finished.
Why Comfort Matters Most
At the end of the day, the most important thing about workout clothes is how they make you feel. When you feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing, it removes one more barrier to showing up and moving your body. You don’t have to think about your clothes; you can focus on the workout itself.
For me, the best workout clothes are the ones I don’t have to think about. They move with me, stay comfortable through an entire session, and allow me to focus on what matters most: moving well and feeling strong. And honestly, when you find pieces that feel good, you’re much more likely to keep coming back to your workouts.
-Natalie
