Hands up if you find yourself setting a new gym goal every January (and this time, really meaning it), only to cancel your membership within a few short months. Raise your other hand if you're determined to break this cycle in 2025. Same—and you can hold me to that. And although we firmly believe that a new year doesn't need new resolutions, a new you or new hobbies, there are some habits I would like to improve on this year.
When it comes to working out, I'll take motivation wherever I can find it, even if it's in the stream of stylish activewear that starts hitting the new-in pages within moments of the clock striking midnight. It might sound silly, but I'm convinced that cute workout gear takes a little of the sting out of those ab-burning burpees. We all know the physical and mental benefits of working out, but there's nothing to say we can't look good while doing it, too.
Even if you're a hardened gym go-er and don't need that sartorial push, January is a time when many of us evaluate our wardrobes and assess the gaps. It doesn't mean we need to ditch it all and start a fresh, but we are perhaps looking to upgrade a basic here and invest in a new wardrobe hero there. Realised your trusty pair of sports leggings is looking a little tired? Or perhaps you need a few colourful pieces to refresh your comfy weekend wardrobe? If so, you're in the right place, because I've rounded up all the stylish activewear out there right now. And trust me, there was a lot to sift through.
When shopping for gym garb, I believe comfort is key. Above all else, you want to feel like you can move your body without worrying about waistbands digging in or feeling unsupported in the bust area. If you're prone to overheating, look out for fabrics that are designed to keep you cool while you build up a sweat.
But you can put your feet up for now, because I've created an edit of all the pieces you need to get started. From sustainable sports bras to relaxed sweatshirts you can wear to yoga, brunch and beyond, take a peek at my edit of the most stylish stretchy separates below.
1. SHOP THE BEST SPORTS BRAS:
Style Notes: Do your research and choose a sports bra that's supportive, flattering and will work well on its own as well as layered under T-shirts.
Shop sports bras:
This one comes in four shades, and is moisture wicking so will be great for hard workouts.
Fashion meets function with this sustainable activewear brand.
Maximise your performance with this ultra-supportive running bra.
Proving gymwear can be chic and practical.
2. SHOP THE BEST WORKOUT LEGGINGS:
Style Notes: Different exercises require different leggings; for slow-paced yoga, a stretchy cotton pair will suffice, while runners know the importance of sweat-wicking materials.
Shop leggings:
Designed for high-impact exercises, these sweat-wicking leggings also features an adjustable drawstring to help make sure the leggings down fall down.
To go with the matching sports bra.
Sweaty Betty leggings are always my first recommendation when someone is looking for gym leggings that'll stand the test of time.
Girlfriend Collective is one of the most inclusive activewear brands around, offering its versatile pieces in sizes XXS to 6XL.
3. SHOP THE BEST SWEATSHIRTS:
Style Notes: Sweatshirts aren't reserved for the gym. The right one will also keep you company on coffee runs, lunch dates and shopping trips.
Shop sweatshirts:
Another great brand for all your athleisure needs.
Chuck on for an extra layer en route to the gym.
COS' sweatshirts are so soft and cosy.
I've lost count on the amount of Anine Bing sweatshirts I have—they're that comfy that I keep buying more.
4. SHOP THE BEST TRAINERS:
Style Notes: Trainers are a cornerstone of all modern footwear collections. Depending on your workout of choice, you'll need a high-quality pair that offers support and breathability.
Shop trainers:
New Balance might just be the most-loved sneaker brand right now—as such, the trendy designs sell out at record speed.
If you're going to invest in one piece of workout kit, make it a great pair of gym shoes.
Asics have long been a fan favourite for Gym-goers and with their upper mesh and comfy gel cushioning you can expect to get a good workout in.
On Running has literally taken the fitness and fashion community by storm this past year and we can see why. These running shoes, true to their name, make you feel like you're running on clouds—they're that soft and easy.
5. SHOP THE BEST WORKOUT TOPS:
Style Notes: Stick to sleeveless tanks for high-impact workouts and insulating long-sleeved tops for winter runs and park yoga.
Shop tops:
The long sleeves make sure you're warm enough, but the cropped length helps keep your temperature at bay during your flow.
Made from a ribbed material for a body-hugging fit so you can rest assured it's going nowhere while you get that jump rope started.
This moisture-wicking zip-up will keep you from overheating as you move.
A light crewneck that works equally well for a pilates class and a spin class.
6. SHOP THE BEST JOGGERS:
Style Notes: When you're not styling your sweatpants into chic everyday looks like all our favourite influencers, they still serve as a foolproof option for gentle gym sessions.
Shop joggers:
This along with the matching sweatshirt doubles as super soft loungewear.
Slip on over your leggings and head out to a post-Reformer Pilates coffee date.
Cream devotees, this one is for you.
So comfy.
7. SHOP THE BEST BIKE SHORTS:
Style Notes: Athletic shorts aren't just a summer staple—they're a year-round workout essential, even in colder weather. Thanks to their lightweight, breathable design, they allow for maximum mobility and layering potential. Pair them over thermal tights or compression leggings, and you'll stay warm without feeling restricted. Plus, their sweat-wicking properties keep you dry during high-intensity winter training sessions, making them a smart choice for cold-weather fitness.
Shop shorts:
Perfect for morning winter runs—just make sure not to get caught in the snow.
I love getting a mat pilates session in in shorts, the burn is real and I'm always getting hot and sweaty that the extra skin on show helps cool me down.
A layered design with built-in stretch-jersey compression shorts to make sure you get the most out of your movement.
H&M's Drymove range is so good for Gym clothes.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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