Workout Bottoms

Shorts, pants and capris for every activity

The single biggest mistake that women make concerning workout bottoms is not buying any. They dig around in their closet for an old pair of sweat pants and throw on a baggy t-shirt. It’s like the mere thought of sweating has women searching for the piece of clothing they care about least. And that’s just the wrong way to think about fitness.

Baggy sweats are probably what you wear while lounging around the house and baggy t-shirts aren’t good for anything but house-painting parties. Why would you wear the same clothing that you wear when you’re at your laziest or messiest when you’re doing something that’s supposed to make you look and feel better?

Workout bottom styles

• Shorts
• Capris
• Pants
  

Material matters

High-tech fabrics with names like Coolmax, Dri-Fit and Supplex have been created to perform a variety of tasks including wicking sweat away from the body, increasing comfort and preventing bacterial growth.

Different bottoms for different activities

• Yoga - Cotton pants with a drawstring waist and wide legs are more than fine for most yoga classes.
• Pilates - With many Pilates moves you’re be required to hold your legs in the air, which means the baggy pants that are great for yoga can bunch up. Snug-fitting Capris or slim-legged pants are a better choice.
• Running - Runners and other high-impact fitness enthusiasts require materials that wick away sweat and dry quickly. Those who run in cold weather should avoid cotton pants and jeans at all costs. If it’s cold enough a snug-fitting base layer under running pants will work, but a good pair of running pants is often enough. Fitted running shorts will help you avoid uncomfortable ride-up and thigh chafing.
• Cycling - Shorts or pants with a padded seat might look funny when you’re off your bike, but you’ll be glad you’re wearing them during long rides. If you don’t need padding, choose bottoms made of a stretchy, close-fitting material like Lycra.
  

If you’ve been working out long enough that your pants no longer fit, don’t think you have to continue wearing them just because they’re in your closet. What better way to reward yourself than with a pair in your new size.