No doubt you’ve seen racks upon racks of high-priced, designer gym-wear and wondered if paying $75 for an EZ-breath, hyper-fibre, 4-way stretch fabric tank top was worth it. Don’t you get the same effect from an old, cotton t-shirt?

In the world of exercise outfits, shoes and accessories, it can be difficult to navigate the shelves and really understand where to spend and where to save. If you’ve ever contemplated the merits of your old sneakers vs. the flashy, pricey trainers at the sports store, read on for a helpful guide to gear.

Clothing

So do you really need those microfiber shorts with the racing stripes down the side and the big logo on the leg? No. The fact is you’ll get the same performance from pricey athletic clothes as you would from a comfy, well-fitting top and bottom. As long as your clothes allow you to move, breathe and aren’t so loose they interfere with the gym equipment, you should be fine.

If you find that your regular clothes often cause irritation on your skin, it may be worth investigation sweat-absorbing fabrics. Many work out outfits are designed to act as a wick for your sweat and keep the skin dry. These items don't come cheap, but if it's a choice between a little extra investment and a recurring rash, the choice is easy.

However, before you through on your old sweats and hit the gym, it’s worth noting that studies have indicated that wearing a flattering outfit to the gym can actually boost your productivity there. So if you’re feeling that your workouts are lacking a little magic, it might be worth investing in some good-looking clothes. Decide for yourself if the extra motivation is worth the price.

Footwear

Shoes are an area where a little extra investment definitely pays off. First of all, wearing the wrong footwear can result in increased injuries which can not only interrupt your workout, but also result in long-lasting and recurring problems. Not only that, but the right footwear can improve stability, balance and overall performance.

In addition to having good shoes, orthotics can make a major difference in the function of your feet, legs and bag. Your best bet is to go to a professional podiatrist, tell him or her what sort of exercise you do and have them look at your stride. Based on your activities and body, they should be able to recommend a good shoe and orthotic.

About the Author

Whitney Cox is a New Zealand-based blogger, writing for MAX Fitness: an innovative fitness school that pairs personal training courses with practical business courses, allowing graduates to launch a career in any aspect of the fitness industry.

View the Author's Profile and other articles published in Personal Trainer Today.

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