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    23 *Stunning* Activewear Sets To Cop Now To Give Your Workout An Oomph

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    Fact: losing the impetus to go workout when your gear doesn’t match or feel good is a *thing*. Enter activewear sets, matching bras and tights that’ll have you feeling your best self while training. Not only will you look good, but you’ll also feel good when moving in high-tech fabrics that look cute and get the job done. We’ve rounded up 23 of our favourite activewear sets, just because.

    But First, Why Is It Important To Invest In Good-Quality Activewear?

    According to adidas, 92% of women find it difficult to focus on their workout when their apparel is uncomfortable. adidas partnered with Associate Professor in Exercise Science and Elite Athlete Physiological Consultant Jason White and Professor Joanna Wakefield-Scurr, head of the Research Group in Breast Health at the University of Portsmouth. Further supported by a global consumer survey, they uncovered the extent of the impact of inadequate apparel. 

    A shocking 58% of women said that they frequently have to stop to pull up their leggings during a workout, whilst almost half (49%) have had marks left on their skin due to tight-fitting apparel. Plus, up to 94% of women are reported to have asymmetrical breasts, which reinforces the critical importance of the correct and supportive fit, as well as adequate performance wear (check out our 19 best sports bras of 2023, if that’s you).

    “From distractions to performance implications, the research and surveys have shown that a large majority of women face issues due to poorly fitting leggings. Whether the leggings are too tight or loose, comfort is a key element to performance, which is why unearthing this research is an important step to support a woman’s participation and enjoyment in all kinds of sport,“ explained Associate Professor Jason White.

    So yeah, choosing the right activewear is pretty darn important, but of course, you still want to be sweating in style. Never fear, our hand-picked selection of activewear sets is here to ensure you’re sorted for 2023 and beyond.

    Activewear Sets For HIIT

    adidas Tailored HIIT Training Set 

    This is one of the workout sets that was created based on the research above, so you’re getting expert-backed gear (on sale right now!).

    Designed with the sporadic movements of HIIT in mind, an integrated internal gripper on the high-rise waistband of these leggings helps minimise your tights rolling down as you jump and run. Meanwhile, the four-way stretch material aims to reduce the feeling of material digging in (don’t you hate it when that happens?) and provides all-round comfort. Plus, this bra’s HEAT.RDY tech and mesh detailing across the front and the open back design maximise airflow, so you’ll feel cool across those high heat and sweat zones.  

    Koko Active Kickstart Set

    Who knew houndstooth could look so chic as workout gear? The shorts feature pockets for storing your keys or phone and the racerback detail on the bra is stunning and shows off your back.

    Burnt Essential Sports Bra And Tights

    A black set is a staple in any workout gear wardrobe and this one will be a fast fave. The sports bra is designed with a long line fit for more coverage so you can feel comfortable wearing it without a shirt. The back of the bra is the real star though; with wide straps and adjustable fasteners so you can customise the fit you’ll get some serious high-impact support.

    The tights, on the other hand, have a thick reinforced waistband so you never have to worry about them slipping while you squat jump or doing a burpee. They’re also 100% squat-proof and designed to flatter all body types. BTW, Burnt is a proudly South African brand, too!

    Under Armour Infinity High Sports Bra and Merdian Print Leggings

    Under Armour nixed the traditional sports bra rules and injected the padding into this bra in a figure 8 pattern. The result? A more aerodynamic fit and a much lighter feel.

    The ankle leggings (perfect for those who are shorter or enjoy a shorter legging) have specially engineered fabric that is super-soft and stretchy. But it’s not that low-support stretch you might first think of, this delivers support and lasting comfort while still being lightweight and breathable. Get ready to smash your push-up PB next time you hit the gym in this kit.

    Activewear Sets For Running

    New Balance Impact Run AT set

    The bra has pockets at the rear for secure storage plus, reflective detailing for those early-morning runs. The tights have pockets too and a beautifully sculpted high waist detail.

    Women’s UA Run Trail Set

    With the winter fast approaching, a crop outer layer and shorts duo is the perfect pick. Both of these pieces are light, ultra-durable, stretchy (thanks to the 4-way stretch fabric) and built to dry fast so you can tackle any trail with confidence.

    The crop is made of super-soft fleece material and has water-resistant woven panels for added durability. Best part? The slouchy funnel neck with drawcord adjust.

    The shorts are made from UA’s updated HeatGear® fabric and have an expandable Speedpocket on the waistband, as well as side bungee lacing for extra storage. You can pack anything you need (even snacks)!

    PUMA Run Ultraform Set

    PUMA is another brand that focuses on developing workout gear with the female form in mind. This set was created for everyday runners. Both the tights and tank feature PUMA’s signature dryCELL moisture-wicking technology for enhanced temperature control to help you remain sweat-free. Plus, these pieces are made with at least 70% recycled material.

    And if you’re wanting to upgrade your kicks, they’ve recently launched the Deviate NITRO 2 Electrocharged running shoe in the pic (matchy-matchy!) It’s super responsive and has a layer of premium NITRO Elite foam for extra cushioning. You can check them out here.

    ASICS Papaya Bra and Tights

    ASICS’ new Gel-Nimbus™ 25 shoe has been one of the hottest releases of 2023 (you can read our review here). But they didn’t just release a gorgeous papaya shoe, we got a stunning matching set, too!

    The Accelerate Bra is a high-support running bra (goodbye movement!) that has a soft lower band (goodbye squished back skin!) and a cross-back design with adjustable straps so you can tailor your fit (goodbye awkward uni-boob!).

    The high-waisted tights are supportive, soft and stretchy in the best way and they’re quick-drying so you don’t have to stress about sweat marks. They also have a phone pocket at the back that’s sweat-resistant and bounce-limiting.

    Activewear Sets For Strength Training

    Under Armour Crossback Low Sports Bra and HeatGear® Leggings

    Under Armour asked real women how they could make UA bras even better, and then they made it happen! This one is built for light-support activity and has removable cups with perforations for better shape and breathability. And the tights have ergonomic flatlock seams to give you a comfortable, chafe-free fit. Both pieces are made with anti-odour tech which prevents the growth of odour-causing microbes. Cheers, stinky workout gear!

    Oh, and those trainers you can see in this pic, those are Under Armour’s new Flow Dynamic trainers and the WH team tested them out. We absolutely loved them and you can read our review here.

    2XU Racerback Crop and Compression Tights

    This set gives major Legally Blonde vibes and we’re here for it. We’re also here for the quality fabric and tech in these pieces. The medium-impact crop has been designed to prevent bounce and is perfect for your gym training sessions and even short runs and spin classes.

    Meanwhile, the compression tights are all about body-sculpting magic with no side seam construction, an extra high waistband and ultra-matte, anti-pill SLX fabric. The real star though? These tights have a mild graduated compression fit for increased circulation for improved recovery and reduced muscle stiffness post-exercise. We love when our workout gear works hard!

    Burnt Milan Sports Bra and Istanbul Tights

    Burnt is a local brand that has taken SA by storm and we can’t get enough of them! The Milan sports bra is their best-selling bra of all time and for good reason, too; it’s supportive, moisture-wicking and breathable. As if that’s not enough, it’s also double-lined and has removable cups.

    And the tights live up to the high praise of this sports bra as well. Burnt promises they are 100% squat-proof with zero transparency which means you don’t have to worry about anyone seeing your underwear through your tights (we’ve all been there). They’re also engineered to sculpt your legs and have a pocket for your keys or gym card.

    N3YH Sage Blossom set

    We love an understated yet bold item and these pieces do just that. With just enough colour to give you a sense of style while you deadlift, this pairing wants you to mix and match items for mimosas, farmer’s markets and downward dogs.

    Livv Activewear Snakeskin print set

    Gold-flecked snakeskin just screams luxe while being as hardworking as you are in the gym. Scrunch detail in the rear accentuates that butt you’ve been working so hard on and the high waist is just *chef’s kiss*.

    The Lot Outline Active Set

    Um, at R440, you can’t really get a better deal than this activewear set. The outline detail sculpts and creates shape.

    Activewear Sets For Yoga And Pilates

    Puma Studio Trend Set

    The soft materials will have you lounging around all day and supports through sweaty sessions with moisture-wicking tech. And just look at how beautiful it is?

    Motherkind Cross-Over Active Wear set

    Flattering halter neck detail? Check. High-waisted pants with drawstring so nothing comes undone? Check. Feeling like you can take on the world? Check, check, check.

    Bacon Bikinis Activewear set

    Think: soft, lush fabric that sits high at the waist and supports the bust. What’s not to love?

    DailyFriday Seamless yoga set

    If you’re working hard during your yoga sesh, you can’t go wrong with a pair of shorts. This detailed set includes flattering criss-cross shapes across the torso, so you’ll just feel your hottest self, while pivoting from horse to skandasana.

    Me and the Sea Earthy Twig set

    Find your flow with this gorgeous set of flowers that crawl up the legs. These pieces are individually cut, so your pair will be totally unique, plus the tights are double-lined (nothing showing when you bend down, woohoo!).

    adidas Collective Power TLRD Impact Luxe

    This bra, which was specifically created to flatter and support women of different sizes, is still available! Plus, it comes with gorgeous pink yoga leggings.

    Nike Zenvy and Indy

    The Nike collection creates pieces that seamlessly coordinate and match each other. Plus, Nike’s gone sustainable, with at least 50% of the product made with recycled nylon fibres. Big win.

    H&M softmove™ set

    Functional fabric helps to wick away moisture from your skin and SoftMove™, a supersoft, functional fabric that is lightweight and provides extra freedom of movement. Plus, that buttery fabric… *swoon*.

    Mr P Checked set

    This cropped bra with eyehole detail is good to go for coffee dates or the gym. The checked pattern is different without screaming you’re about to throw down at the weights.

    Kelleigh Korevaar

    Kelleigh is the Managing Editor of Women’s Health. When she’s not convincing her colleagues to try the latest TikTok trends, you can find her planning a holiday that never leaves the group chat, binge-reading or eating her way through Cape Town.

    Michelle October

    Michelle is a freelance writer at WH, passionate about all things health, fitness and mental wellness. She’s also an avid surfer and recently discovered skateboarding as a viable means of transport. Skate dates, anyone? More

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      How To ‘Spring Clean’ Your Fitness Gear For Better Workouts

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      By Gina Beretta
      Ahh, the circle of life (for your fitness gear). Like the milk in your fridge, even your favourite sports bra has an expiry date.
      Serious question… when was the last time you cleaned out your fitness gear? You really do put your workout wear through it’s paces. All that sweating, washing and vigorous wearing will ultimately compromise your comfort and performance. So, here we’re giving you the tools you need so that you’ll know when it’s time to ‘throw in the towel’ — or, rather, your bra, tops and socks.
      READ MORE: 11 Best Workout Tights To Give You All The Gym Inspo
      Compression Garments
      Life span: Six months to one year
      Designed to help increase circulation, compression tights, socks and sleeves may help speed post-workout recovery too, research suggests. Inevitably, though, they stretch over time and lose efficacy.
      Time to tossCompression clothes should have a super-snug, almost uncomfortable fit. If it’s getting easier and easier to slide them on or if fibres are coming out of the fabric, you’re probably not getting the full benefits.
      Make ’em lastWash after every (yes, every) wear, since body oils and dirt can compromise their compression. Don’t machine-dry and avoid wringing and twisting.
      READ MORE: Your Best Guess – Three Easy Ways To Wear Jewellery
      Sports Bras
      Life span: One year (or less, if you’re doing high-impact workouts)
      Supporting the girls is no easy task: the physical stress of stopping boob bounce degrades a bra’s elasticity.
      Time to tossYou’re starting to chafe, the bra rides up when you raise your arms or your boobs move more during workouts.
      Make ’em lastCleaning by hand is ideal, but if you do use the machine, fasten hooks first, put the bra in a mesh washing bag, then drip-dry to avoid warping.
      Swimming Costumes
      Life span: Six months to two years
      Pool chemicals break down the fibres, making your cozzie lose shape; this creates drag, which can slow you down.
      Time to tossBaggy crotch, faded spots or tiny white fibres popping out.
      Make ’em lastRinse with tap water post-swim. Squeeze out excess water and lay flat to dry.
      READ MORE: The 18 Best Swimwear Pieces That’ll Flatter Every Figure
      Socks
      Life span: One to three years
      That thin fabric can hold up to your stepping and sliding only so long, leaving you prone to painful friction and blisters when it gives out.
      Time to tossThey’re stretched out, you see holes in the heel or around the ball of your foot, or you get more blisters than usual.
      Make ’em lastWear them only during your workout. Dry on low heat to prevent shrinkage.
      READ MORE: 6 Ways To Melt-Proof Your Make-Up This Summer
      Moisture-Wicking Tops
      Life span: Six months to five years plus
      These shirts draw sweat away from your skin to help regulate body temp. Most synthetics are chemically treated or have technology woven in that lasts 25 to 50 washes.
      Time to tossIt can be hard to tell, but gradually they’ll become less effective at keeping you dry.
      Make ’em lastFollow washing directions religiously to prevent wicking power from fading prematurely.
      Waterproof Jackets
      Life span: Five years plus
      A good topper can protect you in two ways: the layers block moisture so it can’t penetrate and they also prevent sweat from getting trapped. The result is breathability and dryness.
      Time to tossYou’re sweating up a storm (because the coat is trapping moisture and heat), water seems to seep into the fabric, or the jacket is starting to smell (even when clean).
      Make ’em lastIdeally, wash no more than twice a year to keep the chemical finish intact (but if the coat is visibly dirty, more cleaning is okay). Tumble dry in heat, which reactivates the surface repellent. More

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      5 High-Impact Sports Bras That’ll Actually Keep Your Boobs in Check

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      If your bra size is any bigger than an orange, chances are, finding a proper sports bra to support you when running, jumping and trying to keep up with the svelte trainer is a gargantuan task.
      There just aren’t many options for big-boobed women to choose from. It can be really difficult to find a bra that’s supportive, doesn’t make having bigger boobs a nightmare, and will make us feel super cute.
      We’ve tracked down some high-impact sports bras that can fit up to an extra-large or can be custom-made to suit your needs, and the best part — they’re everything a curvy girl could want! Plus, we’ve slipped a few medium-impact gems in, too. Because we’re not jumping up and down every day, are we?
      Why Wear A *Good* Sports Bra?
      Like many things in life, breasts are pretty complex. They are made up of mostly fat, tissue and ligaments. Because breasts do not contain muscle or are not attached to muscles, they can move independently from the rest of the body and are susceptible to strain. Meaning that our breasts are supported by just skin and ligaments.
      These ligaments, called Cooper’s ligaments, are fragile and once torn, they lose their ability to support the breast leading to pain and saggyness. Women with bigger busts are more likely to have sag due to the skin and ligaments being under more strain because the weight of the breast.
      So, ensure that when choosing a bra, the band is not too tight, there should no spillage or straps cutting into your shoulders… and that you are 100% comfortable.
      READ MORE: Exactly What To Consider When Choosing A Sports Bra
      1/ High-Impact Sports Bras
      High-impact bras are great for high intensity exercises and activities such as running, dance, basketball, kickboxing and HIIT (High intensity interval training).
      PANACHE Ultimate High Impact Underwire Sports BraR 1204Buy It
      This UK-based brand offers support that lowers movement by 83%. Smooth, flat seams eliminate friction and discomfort while the wider straps make for greater support and easing shoulder pressure.
      Lisa Raleigh Body Kind Sports BraR 999Buy It
      This bra is best for changing bodies: women who are losing a large amount of body fat, pregnant women whose bodies are in flux, and anyone else who needs a super-adjustable sports bra. It comes in eight sizes up until 5XL. The chest and shoulder straps are adjustable, with extra hooks in the front to secure the front zip (no more grunting while trying to get your bra off!).
      Asics Color Block Bra IIIR 790Buy It
      A great high-impact bra that’s made from about 78% recycled materials (double yay!) plus broad, breathable straps to keep you supported.
      Under Armour Infinity High Blocked Sports BraR 800Buy It
      This bra incorporates new knowledge that when boobs move, they don’t go up and down, but rather in a figure eight. The padding has this in mind, with adjustable elastic straps and a little more coverage at the front.
      READ MORE: The 6 Best Resistance Bands For Every Type Of Workout, According To Certified Trainers
      adidas TLRD Impact Luxe Training High-Support Bra WomensR 1164Buy It
      These super-detailed bras mould to your breast and keep everything in place while you train. It’s also made with about 60% recycled materials and straps are adjustable. Plus, it’s just so beautiful.
      2/ Medium Impact Bras
      Medium-impact bras still require a fair amount of support for bending over while executing mountain climbers, push-ups and other strength training maneauvres.
      Salomon Essential Move On Seamless Sports BraR 600Buy It
      Seamless construction won’t chafe and the stretch fabric fits most body types and moves with you while you run or work out.
      READ MORE: 11 Best New Running Shoes That’ll Inspire Your Next PB
      adidas PowerImpact Luxe Training Medium-Support BraR 500Buy It
      So many things to love about this bra: the front entry means it’s so much easier to get in and out of, plus the fabric is quick-drying, so you don’t have to look like you’ve emerged from an ocean swim post-sesh.

      READ MORE ON: Fitness Fitness Gear Style Style Tips More

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      Exactly What To Consider When Choosing A Sports Bra

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      First, let’s get one question out the way: Do you really need a proper sports bra? After all, it’s a lot of money to fork out for such a tiny piece of fabric. The short answer: Yes. Even if your go-to everyday bra is padded and underwired to the max (hello, cleavage!), it doesn’t offer enough support to withstand your workout.
      According to the Portsmouth University research team, more than 70% of women wear the wrong bra size. When choosing a sports bra, they advise looking for a comfortable fit in five areas: the underband, cups, underwire, centre-front and shoulder straps.
      There are no muscles within the breasts – they’re essentially a collection of fat and tissue held to the body by ligaments and skin – and the issue is that neither of these is especially strong. The connective tissue that holds the breast to the chest is comprised of Cooper’s ligaments, which naturally extend with age and over time – but exercise without supporting them properly and they could stretch up to 2cm during high-intensity workouts.
      READ MORE: Finally! Sports Bras That Don’t Feel Like Freaking Straitjackets
      What’s more, contrary to how your breasts may appear to move up and down as you run, burpee or push press, they actually swing in a figure of eight. It was this discovery that inspired the design of Under Armour’s Infinity bra. Instead of following the traditional method of constructing a sports bra – cutting two breast-shaped cups from a flat piece of padding, glueing and layering pieces of foam – they liquid-injected the foam in a figure-eight (a.k.a. infinity sign) shape, making the bra feel more natural and comfortable without sacrificing support.
      Debbie Risius, senior research associate at Portsmouth University, states that a woman’s choice of sports bra can also influence her breathing rate and thermoregulation during exercise. This is down to the fit of the bra and the fabric from which it’s constructed: a 2013 study found that, while all sports bras reduced the cooling ability of the breast – simply by virtue of being another layer of clothing – sports bras made from polyester allowed for better thermoregulation than bras made from other composite materials.
      Now we’ve established that a sports bra is a worthy investment, here are five things you need to know when choosing a sports bra.
      READ MORE: 5 High-Impact Sports Bras That’ll Actually Keep Your Boobs in Check
      1/ Your Bra Size
      All kinds of things can influence the size of your breasts, from your menstrual cycle to pregnancy to weight loss. Yet most of us still buy bras according to measurements taken years ago. What’s more, not only do your breasts change size – bras can vary in size from brand to brand.

      When to get measured: It’s been more than six months since your last fitting, your body has changed or you’re buying a different brand than your usual. Trying on? Make sure you can’t pull the band more than five centimetres from your chest or the straps more than five centimetres from your shoulders. And make sure the cups fully enclose your boobs.
      READ MORE: The 8 Best Groin Stretches For Anyone Who Sits All Day Long
      2/ Your Workout Style
      When you scope out the sports bras on offer, you’ll notice they’re divided into different categories. Usually these will be called high, medium and low impact or high, medium and low support. This is to help you match your bra to the type of workout you do.
      Your workout: Running, bootcamp, martial arts, boxing, bodyweight training, anything involving jumping or skipping
      You need: High impact. Look for racerback straps and padded or moulded cups. If your breasts are small, you could also you use a medium impact bra.
      Your workout: Cycling, spinning, weight lifting, the gym circuit, hiking
      You need: Medium impact if your breasts are small; high impact if they’re medium to large. Look for broad straps and padding and/or sturdy fabric with a light stretch.
      Your workout: Yoga, Pilates, Barre
      You need: Low impact for small boobs; medium impact for medium boobs; high impact for large boobs. Look for comfortable, stretchy fabric, padding optional, strap width according to your preference.
      3/ The Fabric
      You know that feeling when you walk out of a spinning class and your bra feels like a wet sea creature strapped to your chest? Avoid that sea-sponge feelin’ by choosing synthetic fabrics that don’t hold onto sweat. Words like “moisture wicking”, “breathable” and “ventilation” are what you want to see.

      READ MORE ON: Fitness Fitness Gear Style Style Tips More