Out with the old and in with the new. Here’s how to let go of old gear!
Just as bulky sweaters are packed into the depths of a tiny closet or tossed after a season of heavy use, activewear is also subject to its own seasonality and life cycle. Workout clothes are about functionality and style, both of which sadly can expire. Keep these tips in mind to maximize closet space allotted for your yoga pants stack during the next spring cleaning session.
Be critical of the workout tank
How you feel when you start a workout impacts how well you train that day, and a big part of how you feel has to do with how you’re presented. When a shirt loses its vibrancy or shape after too many washes, it will affect the way you see yourself. Further, less technical fabrics have a tendency to stain or break down with continued use (read: excessive sweating).
They say dress for the job you want. Well, the same advice can be applied to working out. When you’re not wearing something that makes you feel great, you’re less likely to operate at your top effort.
Stretchy pants shouldn’t be too stretchy
When previously form-fitting leggings start to feel a little less so, it’s probably time for a change. Seams and waistbands can become loose (especially when washing instructions aren’t always followed closely), and styles can be outgrown. If you want to be ready to take on the world, do yourself a favor and upgrade to a new style, size or fabric that is better suited for your current workout obsession and your body as it is today.
Don’t be lenient with sports bras
If there is one type of fitness gear worth investing in it’s the sports bra. The benefits of a good-quality, well-fitting and activity-appropriate sports bra are plenty. While the high-end brands design their pieces to last, all sports bras reach a point where they are no longer truly effective. Move past the killer color combo, cool designs and the fact that you had to set aside money for a month to make the purchase, and set your sights on a brand-new one that’s going to offer the support you need.
No need to hoard water bottles
Any person with a fitness obsession is likely to have multiple water bottles stashed around the house. Guess how many water bottles that same person uses during a workout? One. Most people have just one or two they use on a regular basis, and several others that just sit around unused. If you fall into this category, or if you’ve never invested in a quality bottle, it may be time to get rid of the excess and shop for the one that’s going to last.
Assess gym bag functionality
At some point, everyone will get distracted by an appealing gym bag, and after putting it to use, they may discover it doesn’t meet their needs or personal preference. The perfect bag will be different for everyone. Finding the right size and shape that allows you to pack everything you need—but also avoids you completely emptying out the bag on the street just to find your phone—is hard. If the one you’ve been using isn’t making your life easier, accept that there’s a better option out there and let the old one go.