Dressing the Part

Over the past few years I've noticed the clothing industry taking the initiative to make running clothes more stylish. There are now brighter colors, tighter pants, pants with the cosmos printed on them, and tanks that actually have usable sports bras built in them. Not saying that fashion has never played a role, I just noticed that they are playing MORE of a role and costing MORE money.

Before I bought my nice running tights and toe shoes and super bright orange lightweight jacket, I kept things simple. I wore whatever shorts I had and T-shirt that was just lying around. I wore cotton everything and conventional running shoes. I usually didn't run more than 1.5 miles either so the effects of cotton chafing me weren't really a reality. However, once I decided I was going to run a marathon I realized my mistake. Cotton shirts were still ok but cotton shorts quickly became a mistake. Even sports bras had to be upgraded. Body Glide was purchase to help with chafing and sunglasses were a new investment. Even camel baks were back in use. Shoes went through a process of being upgraded as well and I quickly settled on the Vibram Five Fingers (VFF). I guess you can say that I definitely LOOK the part. I look like a runner. Or at least I am dressed like one.

Too often people buy the clothes but never do the work. You can tell because no fabric can really lift your butt and make it look good. That requires real work. It requires taking the stairs daily, walking everywhere, running, biking, being fit and not living a sedentary lifestyle. You have a flat ass? It's because you sit on it all day. Or you have chair butt where your ass is unusually high but it is clear that it has formed the shape of the chair you sit in. This usually shows in overweight people. If you are going to dress the part, you have to do the part as well.

Which is why I am only recently purchasing clothes that are now "in style." I have finally found a sports bra that really does keep those girls still during runs and doesn't seem to wear out quickly. I buy them now from Old Navy along with their other fitness clothing. It all is at a great price and they fit nice and are super comfortable. I'm not afraid to pay a pretty penny but I prefer not to go broke just to stay fit and be clothed. I do the part, now I am dressing the part.

As for the style, I have to admit that the bright colors are a plus. I plan on running tonight in my neighborhood and the neon orange lightweight jacket that I will be wearing is bright enough to have any motorist see me from a mile away. That is one thing I cannot complain about. It may be the style, but it is also a way to keep me safe and seen. :)