When was the last time you updated the contents of your exercise wardrobe? If the question is calling to mind a pair of rolled-up leggings and a sports bra that has (let’s be honest) seen better days, take comfort: as it turns out, you’re bang on trend. A new war has been brewing between millennials and Gen Z on TikTok in recent weeks, with gym wear acting as the fertile battleground for a heated argument.
According to the younger generation, the matchy-matchy, tightly fitting sets loved by a certain breed of Instagrammer are now somewhat passé; the current look is all about baggy tracksuits over short-shorts and swapping bra tops for faded tees. Just as no-show trainer socks were decreed painfully passé by twentysomethings a few months ago – these days, it’s all about a pair that hits mid-calf – Gen Z is now casting a discerning eye over our workout gear.
Though sartorial schisms between generations are hotly debated on social media, it’s best to take them with a pinch of salt. After all, when a trend can go full-circle in a matter of days, following each new fashion directive slavishly would be a full-time (and rather thankless) job. There are, however, a few golden rules we should all be following when it comes to the clothes we wear to the gym – whatever our age.
“Everyone has different concerns, whether it’s body image, sweat patches, or making sure what you’re wearing doesn’t hinder your performance,” says Sarah Lindsay, a three-time Olympian and founder of cult personal training company, Roar Fitness. “Honestly, it’s about whatever you feel comfortable in.”
For her, that’s loose shorts and a tighter crop top with a sweatshirt as an extra layer during her warm-up, but “whatever you can wear that will stop you worrying about what you look like and help you focus on training is what matters”.
Start with a sports bra
Not sure where to start? Begin by building up your basics, says personal trainer Florence Bryant. “Sports bras should be comfortable, supportive and not too tight around the chest or in the armpits,” she advises, adding that a clasp back is her preference (Nike has a wide selection and Maree is great for larger breasts).
Hybrid sports bra, £68, Maaree
“I also like bras that aren’t too revealing, so that I can remove my top if I get too hot.” If you’re not sure of your size, go in-store to try before you buy; most specialist shops will offer fittings which are helpful.
The best sports bras to buy now
Squat-proof bottoms
Think about the kind of exercise you usually prefer and let that inform your fashion choices, says Bryant. Like lifting weights? Your bottoms “must be squat proof” or you’ll spend half your workout pulling up your waistband; she suggests Gymshark’s range for their “shorts and leggings that accentuate curves in all the right places”.
If you’re a runner, look for loose-fitting shorts from Puma and Adidas which will let you move freely – and don’t forget to update your trainers at least every six months to avoid injuring yourself.
The best shorts to buy now
Runners need pockets
It’s also wise to think about the practicality of your gear: after all, an outfit that looks great on Instagram might not serve your needs on the cross-trainer. Bryant likes to have pockets on her shorts or leggings to hold her phone and also recommends Sweaty Betty’s pieces “as they’re very durable and they wash well”; the “Power Gym” leggings come in myriad colours and boast two pockets (one of which has a zip to keep your valuables extra safe).
The best leggings to buy now
Kit that works outside the gym
Where workout clothes are concerned, style must always follow substance – but that doesn’t mean you need to abandon fashion entirely. The Spring/Summer 2025 runways were peppered with sporty ensembles, from hoodies layered underneath blazers at Stella McCartney, to sleek track jackets at Miu Miu and The Row. Don’t be surprised, therefore, if you find yourself wearing your gym wardrobe out to lunch, or even to the office.
Joggers from the fashion crowd’s favourite brand, Navygrey, make excellent warm-up trousers but can just easily be styled with loafers, a crisp shirt and oversized sunglasses; likewise, Adanola’s cool-girl sweatshirts will work hard with tailored trousers and a baseball cap. Lululemon’s leggings, meanwhile, look just as good tucked into knee-high boots as they do with trainers (look to Kendall Jenner for inspiration).
The best joggers to buy now
What’s more, you can justify any new purchases in the name of better health. “I definitely think that if you look good when you’re working out, you feel good,” says Bryant. “A new outfit or pair of trainers can work wonders.” You’re also more likely, says Lindsay, to actually use that expensive gym membership if you’ve put a bit of effort into your outfit.
“If you want to wear something really cute that makes you feel good and boosts your confidence, then 100 per cent, embrace that – as you’re going to feel more motivated to show up.” And at the end of the day, isn’t that what counts?