Women's Plus Size Athletic Wear

Why Athletic Wear is Popular

Women's plus size athletic wear has definitely changed over time. Years ago, full-figured gals had very few choices in workout attire including frumpy, elastic-waist sweatpants and over-sized t-shirts or men's "jogging suits" -- nylon sweatpants with a matching zip-up jacket. And they only wore those in the privacy of their own homes or in one of the few gyms that were available. Never would they think to wear them to run a few errands. Today's women, however, have choices in athletic wear, not only in style, but fabric as well. Much of the athletic fashions found are made of performance material, designed to move with your body, not restrict it.

Why the big change? Over the last few decades, the number of female athletes has skyrocketed. They demanded comfort and equality. They wanted what the men already had: Choices of stylish work-out clothing. Women wanted more than the Jane Fonda leg warmers and leotards, neither of which was really functional outside of an aerobics class, nor was flattering on a plus size woman. They also wanted athletic-styled clothing that can be worn to the gym as well as the grocery store. Designers listened and are definitely reaping the rewards. Today's types of athletic wear include:

• Yoga pants (any length)
• Sweat pants (any length)
• Tank tops
• Hoodies
• Sports bras
• Panties
• Bike shorts
• Running shorts
• Swimsuits
• Crop tops
• Polo shirts
• Skorts
• Leggings
• Jerseys (sleeveless, short- and long-sleeved)
• Shoes

The fabric used to make athletic wear has come a long way as well. Much of the material used helps keep moisture away from your skin while sweating:

• Spandex
• Cotton
• Polyester
• Lycra
• Tricot
• Mesh
• Nylon

How to Wear Athletic Clothing

Women's plus size athletic wear should be worn like any other clothing. Sports bras, for example, should fit snug to provide the maximum support, but not too small as to create any unsightly bulges; the same goes with underwear. Women's athletic panties or boy shorts should fit, but not be loose, as this could cause them to ride up or bunch. Tops and bottoms should not be baggy, as they could then hinder any workout you are doing. Over-sized clothing also looks sloppy and makes a plus size woman look larger than she is. If in doubt, try on the clothing before buying it, or if shopping online, double check your measurements with the store's size chart. You really want these clothes to properly fit.

If you plan on exercising in cold weather, make sure you layer your clothing, as this will prevent you from overheating and trapping moisture against your skin. But don't under-dress either. A good rule of thumb is, if you think you need a jacket or sweatshirt, then bring it just in case.

When to Wear Athletic Wear

Just because it's cozy-casual wear, doesn't mean it should be worn all of the time. There are many places where it's appropriate to wear athletic wear:

• Around the house
• To the park
• When taking kids on playdates
• To the gym
• While running errands to the grocery store, post office, dry cleaners, etc.
• Driving kids to and from school
• Doing any type of exercise such as Pilates, yoga, walking or running

However, athletic wear can't be worn everywhere. There are times and places when it is considered completely unsuitable:

• At work, whether it's an office or retail store, unless you work for a company that sells or promotes athletic wear
• On a date, unless you are going rock climbing or to the gym
• To church
• Any formal affair
• On a job interview
• At a nice restaurant

Buying Women's Plus Size Athletic Wear

Because of its popularity, women's athletic wear is pretty easy to find. Your neighborhood Target, Wal-Mart or JCPenney should carry a variety of styles and sizes to meet your workout needs. If you are looking online, you will be able to find a large selection at:

• Junonia
• Plus Size Athletic Wear
• Ladies Only Sports
• Champion Sports Apparel
• Just My Size

A Final Note

Face it: Athletic and active clothing is inexpensive to buy and comfortable to wear. It doesn't matter if you are bike riding, playing tennis, walking or going swimming, it's always good to be dressed in the right clothing. And even if you aren't into exercising or sports, a few pieces of athletic wear are always handy to have in your wardrobe.