How To Care For Your AYBL Activewear
You work hard to stay in shape, so it’s only right that your gymwear does the same too.
Often made from technical fabrics, such as polyester and nylon, these diligent, yet delicate materials require extra TLC to keep them looking and feeling as good as new. Besides, when you’re investing well in high quality activewear, you want to make sure it lasts longer than just a few sessions.
So, to help you take better care of your AYBL gear, we’ve put together some top tips on how to wash gym clothes properly so they stay fresh for longer.
Grab a notebook, girls.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR GYM CLOTHES?
We figured this would probably be the first question you have and the answer is as you’d expect: every time after working out. Warm, moist fabrics are a breeding ground for bacteria to grow - not to mention the smell! If you’ve ever left your gym kit at the bottom of your bag by accident (we’ve all done it!), then you’ll know exactly what we’re talking about.
Which is why it’s also best to air dry your gym clothes after your workouts. This not only makes them easier to clean and eliminate odours, but like your gym bag, your laundry basket can breed mould and mildew. Yep, gross!
HOW TO WASH GYM CLOTHES
1. PRE-SOAK IN VINEGAR
Trust us on this one! A little bit of vinegar can go a long way when washing your gym clothes, especially if they’re extra smelly.
Soak your clothes in four parts cold water and one part white vinegar for at least an hour before washing. This will help eliminate any unpleasant smells and break down stains, such as sweat. Rinse with cool water and leave to air dry.
2. WASH SIMILAR COLOURS & MATERIALS TOGETHER
You’ve probably already mastered the art of separating lights and darks, so let’s take it one step further by separating your activewear so that you’re washing similar fabrics together. Mixing and washing ‘heavier’, synthetic materials with cotton can cause abrasion, resulting in greater wear and tear.
For more delicate materials, such as mesh and seamless fabrics, you may wish to use a wash bag for an extra layer of protection.
3. WASH INSIDE OUT
It’s a well known fact that washing your clothes inside-out can help protect the colour, but did you know it can also give your dirtier items (AKA your activewear) a deeper clean too? Bearing in mind that the inside of your clothes is where all the body bacteria builds up (armpit stains, we mean you!), it makes sense to turn them inside-out before washing.
Don’t forget to zip up any fastenings to prevent any damage to your other items. We also recommend that you remove any padding from your sports bras to help retain their shape.
4. WASH ON A COLD SETTING
Believe it or not, girls, hot water could damage your AYBL-wear more than it could help. In fact, extreme heat can break down the elasticity of stretchy materials, causing them to shrink and have a shorter lifespan. And let’s be honest, nobody wants that, right?
On a side note, be mindful of how much detergent you’re using, as too much soap makes it difficult for your washing machine to rinse your clothes thoroughly, and soap build up is a hotspot for bacteria.
5. AVOID FABRIC SOFTENER
While it may seem like the easiest way to eliminate odours, fabric softener can actually be counterproductive. Truth is, fabric softener can damage the technical properties of stretchy fabrics, affecting their ability to be sweat-wicking or anti-bacterial.
On top of that, it can create a coating on your clothes that actually traps smells!
6. AIR DRY
Just like hot water can affect your gymwear’s longevity, so can hot air. We recommend air drying your gym clothes inside on a clothes horse or drying rack. This will help to reduce shrinkage and even keep them stretchier for longer.
And the best part? Because most gym clothes are designed to wick away moisture, they should dry in no time!
Treating yourself to new gymwear can be all the motivation you need to get moving, and looking after it properly will keep it in tip-top condition for longer. That way you won’t be forking out for a new ‘fit every few months - unless you want to, of course!
Talking of new ‘fits, why not check out our latest arrivals and discover what’s new?
Psstt… Don’t forget to wash your gym bag too. All you need is a cloth and a little soap and water!
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Beginners guide to starting a running routine this year
Whether you're looking for a new fitness challenge, gearing up for a 10k run, or simply aiming to get in shape - your running journey starts here!
Running is one of the most accessible ways to get fit, relieve stress, and boost mental health but it can also be intimidating if you’re just starting out. We’ve put together a simple guide to help you get moving safely and confidently this year.
1. Set Realistic Goals
Starting with a goal can make all the difference. Begin with something achievable, like running a specific distance or time, or simply going for three short runs a week. Avoid setting high expectations right away; this will help you stay motivated without the pressure.
2. Start Slowly
A common mistake beginners make is diving in too fast. Start with a mix of walking and running, such as the “run-walk” method. Try alternating a few minutes of running with a minute of walking, gradually increasing the running intervals each week.
3. Invest in Essential Gear
A quality pair of running shoes that matches your foot type and supports your stride can greatly reduce injury risk and enhance comfort. Moisture-wicking clothing will keep you dry, especially if you're running in various weather conditions. Adding a reliable set of headphones for music and a running vest can boost motivation and keep essentials within reach on your runs.
4. Warm Up and Cool Down
Warming up prepares your muscles for the workout and can improve your performance. Start with a 5-minute brisk walk or dynamic stretches. After running, spend a few minutes cooling down with gentle stretching to help prevent stiffness and soreness.
5. Track Your Progress
Using a journal, app, or smartwatch to track your runs helps you see progress over time and keeps you motivated. Start with a baseline run, and gradually push your limits by small increments each week. Seeing improvements, no matter how small, can give you a huge confidence boost.
6. Listen to Your Body
It’s normal to feel some discomfort as you start running, but pain is a red flag. If you feel sharp or persistent pain, take a rest day and allow yourself to recover. Proper rest is crucial for building endurance and strength over time.
7. Stay Consistent
Consistency is key in building a running routine. Aim for small, steady improvements each week rather than big jumps. Finding a running buddy, joining a local park run, or having an upbeat playlist can help you stay motivated on those days when getting out the door feels tough.
8. Celebrate Milestones
Whether it’s your first mile or first week without skipping a session, take time to celebrate! Acknowledging your achievements, no matter how small, can help keep you excited about your progress.
Starting a running routine can be a life-changing decision that builds not just physical fitness but also mental resilience. So, lace up, stay positive, and enjoy the journey—your goals are just a run away!
Shop AYBL for the latest activewear to keep you motivated in achieving your fitness goals this year!