There is a whole “boutique fitness clothing” economy springing up across the country (world?). Places like Lululemon, Athleta (which Gap Inc. is buying), were created to “cater to female athletes.” They offer luxurious workout clothes (that can be tailored, no less), that cost a small fortune for an average person.
We all know this is make-believe. You don’t need “yoga pants” to do yoga. In fact, my favorite clothing for yoga is a pair of shorts. Women may want to keep their bra’s on, but I’m fine if they don’t.
What about running? Yeah, again, a pair of shorts. If it’s chilly out, give me sweatpants and a sweatshirt. If it’s too cold for that, what the hell am I running for (from?)?
Back in high school gym class we were given running shorts (the real deal…if you have big glutes, your cheeks are hanging out of the back) and a tank top. That was our gym uniform. Perfect. Then, suddenly, someone designing clothes for athletes realized they could charge more if they used more fabric (or something). Suddenly, guys in the NBA were wearing coulats in games, and arm-sleeves, or several t-shirts at the same time, and sports became a fashion-show.
Well, okay, whatever floats your boat. But I want you, dear reader, to consider two things about these choices – Function, and Repercussions.
Function – how will you function best? Consider that. Then think about “fashionable” items that you might wear a lot (I mean, more than your gym clothes) – like “skinny jeans,” that inhibit hip flexion. Suddenly everyone walks like a penguin, they can’t bend at the hips. They have to flex their lower back (lumbar spine) when they sit, because their “skinny jeans” won’t let their hips bend. Add high heels to that mess and you have physiological disaster waiting to happen.
Repercussions – aside from the physical repercussions (which aren’t obvious…that is, you won’t notice you’ve been crippled by your clothes till your back blows out), there are serious global environmental repercussions to the continual production, consumption, and disposal of unnecessary bullshit. When you buy your new Lululemon workout gear, where was it made? Where was it shipped from? Who made it, and how much were they paid? What happened to the environment they lived in? How long will it last? Longer than a skimpy pair of running shorts? When the trends change, will it sit in your closet, or be dumped on Goodwill, or worse – in the trash can?
You are effecting very large things with your fashion choices. Be careful.
