GRIPAD ® Blog

Your gear can be a very important aspect of your workout, and the items you bring with you to the gym can sometimes mean the difference between great and mediocre results. Quality gear can also mean the difference between a fun, pleasant workout experience that leads to good memories versus a negative gym experience that can dampen your motivation down the road.

So how can you make sure your gear is supporting your goals? Start by taking a look at your clothing.

What to Wear When you Work Out

If you engage in high impact cardio activities, your shoes should be in excellent shape and should be carefully chosen. Long distance running shoes should be replaced every six months, even if they still look fine. The cushioning can become compressed over time in ways that aren’t visible, but this compression can increase the impact on your joints as you run. For less intense activities, shoes don’t need to be replaced as often, but they should still be chosen to match the sport you play the most.

Your pants, shirts, socks and outerwear should be made of either natural fibers or moisture-wicking synthetics. They should fit tightly enough to stay out of your way, but not so tightly that they constrict your range of motion or prevent your skin from breathing properly.

If you dedicate a portion of your workout to weight training or resistance work, make sure your hands are adequately protected. But skip the gloves, which can trap moisture and collect mildew. Instead, use strap-on pads specifically designed for weight training.

Flexible, moisture-wicking Gripads are made of durable neoprene and they cover only your vulnerable palms, not your whole hand. This means your skin can breathe and your hands don’t feel constricted as you lift. Gripads also have a non-slip grip that can help you maintain a safe grip on heavy bars, ropes, and other equipment.