Just because we're plus-size doesn't mean we don't love exercise! Whether you're into a daily exercise routine, just starting one, or simply thinking about it, consider these options for high-impact activities. By choosing the right sports capris and supportive tops, you'll decrease the sensation of impact while running and protect your ligaments.
1. Athletic Stretch Pants, JC Penney.com
While you may shy away from tighter fits, they will hold you in, support your muscles during impact, and actually make you look slimmer. Stick to black athletic pants with a slight flare and a wide, soft waistband for total support. Try the French Terry Pants from St. John's Bay up to size 3X, which have a sporty side stripe and a comfortable drawstring waist.
- Wear capris if you have smaller ankles and want to look slimmer while wearing your athletic pants.
- Don't underestimate the power of great supportive athletic pants. You'll feel so much more comfortable and confident.
2. Sports Tank
Do you layer sports bras for added support? You're not the only one. If your breasts are DD, E, or larger, it can be truly painful to jog or bike. Find a supportive athletic top that has an inner bra to protect and support your bust even further.
- If you wear several layers under your tee, find fabrics that wick away sweat like Junonia's QuickWik or Coolmax.
- Find a sports tank with a mesh lining and a supportive band for comfort, such as Brooks' Nightlife Tank.
3. Supportive Tee with Lycra
Don't stick to your plain cotton tees for the gym. Shirts in lightweight fabric with a hint of stretch will cool you off faster than cotton, and (available in XL) is actually nice enough to run errands in and wear on the weekends.
- Short sleeve shirts can actually be more comfortable than short sleeve shirts, and they will cover up your upper arms if you are self-conscious.
- A tighter fit will help support your muscles as you exercise. You don't need something skintight, but snug.
4. Underwire Sports Bra
- Plus-size women should always wear the most supportive sports bra that they can. Try on your sports bra and jump as if you are running or stair stepping to test it out.
- Always dry your sports bras on a low setting to retain the elasticity and support.
- If you need a sports bra with unbelievable support for larger or sensitive breasts, try the Serious Motion Control Bra from Juononia.
5. Power Briefs
You can decrease the feeling of high impact activities with a simple pair of athletic panties. Find a pair that reach halfway below the thighs to beat panty lines. Look for supportive panties from Smarty Pants, like this pair of longline panties, available in size XL.
- Look for your athletic panties in nude or black. White ones may show through darker colored stretch pants when bending and moving. Try to find anti-microbial fabrics to prevent odor and bacterial growth.
- If you don't like longline panties, try boyshort styles instead.
