We’ve all seen them; the spandex leggings, the sports bras and the hoards of sneakers paraded around campus, maybe even the token gym bag in place of a backpack. With brands like Lululemon and Athleta becoming the uniform of choice here at the U, here are the do’s and don’ts of activewear to take you from the classroom to the Wellness Center.
DO wear flattering clothes. Active wear is not an excuse to throw on a sloppy t-shirt and pants that are more appropriate for sleeping than public places, especially for class. It’s important to make good impressions with professors and this kind of attire makes it look like you’ve just rolled out of bed. Unfortunately, your professor will just assume you overslept and not hat you’re on your way to kill leg day instead.
DON’T be afraid to accessorize. Being in and out of the gym is not a reason to neglect the fashionista inside. Hair ties that double as printed elastic bracelets will do the trick, or even your favorite watch or set of bangles. Just don’t forget to store them in your locker before you begin your workout.
DO keep your shirt on. For the love of God, Dooley is not the gym and there is no reason you should only be wearing a sports bra right now. At the end of the day, you wouldn’t walk around in just your bra. I’m all for sports bras as shirts for working out for lots of reasons, but mostly because you don’t have to worry about your cute loose tank getting in the way of your squat jumps, however throwing on a cami or a sports jacket will make you feel more comfortable for that time spent out of the gym. You never know what sort of professional opportunities will be thrown your way on campus, so try your best to be ready for them.
DON’T shy away from prints. They’re everywhere and one is bound to fit your personal style. For those that often lean towards an edgier look I suggest a camo print, my personal favorite. But the options are endless. Can’t decide? Try athleta’s new rainbow-colored laser beam sonar capri.
DO opt for leggings. This is always debated, but we vote yes. If you are actually going to the gym after class and you want to throw on leggings, they’re appropriate as long as the rest of your outfit is on point.
DON’T head to class directly after you’ve just been to the gym. You’ll need that time to yourself and to make sure you’re getting the fuel and hydration you need. Give yourself time for a shower which is so important for your skin!
DO support the ‘Canes with your athletic apparel! A nice orange and green tank goes well with track shorts in the fall, or a jacket and leggings now in the winter cold.
DO invest in a decent pair of sneakers that match most of your workout apparel. It’s hard to sift through all of the options out there these days, but I always recommend a black pair of Nike or Adidas trainers. Trainers are strictly meant for the gym and the tried and true reputation of these brands make them my pick for most reliable, plus black matches everything. Need I say more?
words_mary spiegel
Miami born, Mary Spiegel is a senior majoring in Media Management and minoring in Motion Pictures with an affinity for online shopping, Starbucks lattes and dim sum. You can catch her on campus somewhere between the Comm School and the Herbert Wellness Center.