Outfit ideas: gym edition

It’s January, and you’re back at the gym. Your training plan for the next two months is locked in, and you’ve just perfected the ultimate motivational playlist to power you through every set (fine if it’s still Ariana Grande ‘yes, and?’ on repeat, not gonna lie!).

Now: no matter if you’re doing a full rebrand and stepping into a gym for the first time, or are approaching unofficial staff member status in 2025, we’ve put together 5 gym kits that perform (and look) great from warm-up to cool-down. All you’ve gotta do is hone in on your intention aka choose your character.

THE GYM ROOKIE

A person dressed in a fitted top and sweatpants stands in a gym, holding a phone, with dumbbells and a workout bench nearby.

2025 is the year you’ve finally committed to your New Year’s resolution. As the proud new owner of your first gym membership (congrats!), you’ve spent the last two weeks watching videos, trying to figure out the purpose of all the machines. Now, it’s time to decide on your workout look.

If you don’t want to draw too much attention and aren’t ready to commit to one focus area, keep it simple and multi-functional. Choose loose training pants for extra comfort and pair them with two quick-drying layers for maximum flexibility.

Dress for your new gym era

THE ONE WHO ONLY COMES FOR THE YOGA CLASSES & SAUNA ACCESS

A person in athletic wear executes a lunge on a yoga mat in a spacious studio. Mirrors reflect large windows, showcasing a cloudy view outside.

The cardio zone of your gym? Still uncharted territory to you. And when would you explore it? Your schedule is already packed with yoga classes, and on days you’re not flowing on the mat, you’ll most likely be unwinding in the sauna — balance is key, right?

With so many yoga classes to attend this year, you need an outfit that moves with you from pose to pose. Soft, stretchy pants are a must for flexibility. Pair them with a fitted top that stays in place through every stretch, and add shorts if you want an extra layer. Got luscious locks? A headband keeps your hair out of your face during downward dog.

Gear for every stretch and pose

THE ‘EVERY DAY IS LEG DAY’

A man executes a lunge in a gym, gripping heavy dumbbells. He is dressed in a fitted shirt, shorts, and vibrant socks, with workout equipment visible in the background.

You never skip leg day, and you like to show it off. And why not? Anyone who has conquered the leg press, set an impressive record on the leg curl machine, and perfected the squat deserves all the attention.

To fully appreciate the gains — after all, your favourite workout spot is in front of the mirror — a pair of (short) shorts is a must. Complete the look with a stretchy, fitted top and training shoes to keep you grounded.

Leg day essentials

THE ONE WHO TURNS INTO A SEMI-PRO ATHLETE AFTER 5PM

A man in a gym sits on a weight bench, holding a water bottle and a phone, dressed in a red long-sleeved shirt and black shorts. Weight plates are visible.

You’ve renewed your yearly gym membership for the 7th time in a row and are practically considered part of the local gym’s inventory by now. While you recognise every member’s face, you’re not here for the small talk — unless it’s about the latest high-tech fabric or innovative gear (but let’s be real, you’re probably already wearing it).

Still, kicking off the new year with a new addition to your workout-wear-dominated wardrobe wouldn’t hurt. Something that keeps you laser-focused on beating your PB, like a breathable, quick-drying base layer, a lightweight tank, shorts with multiple pockets, and perfectly matched training shoes.

Gym wear that keeps you focused

THE ‘USUALLY PREFERS WORKING OUT AT HOME’

A man wearing a green hoodie and shorts adjusts weights on a barbell in a gym, with dumbbells visible on the floor.

Your YouTube ‘home workouts’ playlist features 74 videos, and you know all the routines by heart. This year, you’re ready for a new challenge: Working out in the gym more than once per quarter.

Swapping the dedicated workout corner of your apartment for a gym doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. Opt for looser fits with your sports t-shirt and shorts, and layer up with a gym hoodie for that extra comforting feel to ease the transition.