Gone are the days when fashion and fitness do not seem to go well together. Recently, ‘athleisure’ became a fashion term and it has been well-embraced by many — me included. But when you do serious or intense exercises, what do you really look for in workout clothes? To help you shop, let me share my top 4 non-negotiables in workout clothes.

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Performance. The clothes must “move with my body”. They must be stretchable and comfortable. I do not have the time for wardrobe malfunctions while working out. Note that some exercises may require special clothing. For example, I use compression leggings for leg day for better blood circulation.

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Fabric. In relation to the first, aside from being stretchable, it must absorb sweat. There are cheap dri-fit fabrics that do not smell good when you sweat. Oh please, avoid this! Also, some are poorly made that the stitches loosen up every time the fabric stretches.

Fit. Workout clothes must fit well. Sports bra is not just for your Instagram photo. It is a need because it has a purpose — that is for support as you move around. Leggings must fit well too. You do not want to keep on pulling it up while working out. To know if your workout clothes have great fit, you should not be adjusting them even when doing your most intense exercises. This is why I refrain from buying online unless I’m very sure of my size.

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Style. With so much options nowadays, I’m glad I’m now able to choose stylish workout clothes. I appreciate also pieces that I can use even outside the gym. Some I can wear in the mall or even in events! Yup, athleisure it is!

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In this look, I’m wearing workout clothes from local brands. It is good to know that there are workout clothes that can now compete with big brands. Quality and prices are getting competitive, making it a thriving industry.

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I wear this crop top too even when I’m out. I pair it with high waisted skirt, pants or shorts. It is a versatile dri-fit top. I’m a sucker of multi-purpose things, in case you haven’t noticed. Haha!

And who said your black leggings should be boring? If you are not a fan of prints and prefer plains, go for details. I got this from Atsui when they launched their pre-holiday collection. The brand started in 2014 with a strong vision to provide Pilates and Yoga wear that would match the needs of everyday enthusiasts in function, fashion, and price. Now, they are embarking on a bigger mission to provide the same comfort and confidence to all kinds of movements.

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With Atsui’s strong commitment to quality, the brand introduces airemov – a specially woven 4-way stretch and moisture-wicking fabric with increased elastane that allows each piece to move as you do. This is exactly part of my non-negotiables, right?

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Top: Ava Athletica
Leggings: Atsui
Rubber shoes: Adidas Ultraboost Triple White
Watch: Fitbit HR 2

Check out Atsui’s latest collection at Atsui.ph. Select pieces are also available in activity centers such as Yoga+ Express, Bikram Yoga Makati and Cebu, Bliss Yoga, and Yoga Hub Cebu. You can also follow Atsuiph on Facebook and Instagram for more updates.

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