By That Girl Whitney Team
This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, That Girl Whitney may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Nothing kills workout motivation faster than clothes that won’t cooperate. Leggings slide down during squats and sports bras dig in or don’t support at all. For plus size women, finding workout clothes that stay put and feel comfortable can be harder than the workout itself.
You deserve activewear that lets you focus on moving your body, whether that’s a walk around the neighborhood, a yoga class, or a full gym session. The right pieces stay in place and support you where you need it.
This guide covers what to look for in plus size workout clothes, the pieces that matter most, how to dress for different workouts, and how to care for activewear so it lasts. Let’s get you moving comfortably.
What to Look For in Plus Size Workout Clothes
Performance details make the biggest difference.
Moisture-wicking fabric pulls sweat away from your skin so you stay drier and more comfortable. Cotton absorbs sweat and stays wet, so it’s better for low-intensity activities.
A high, wide waistband stays put during movement. Look for waistbands that are several inches tall and lie flat.
Opaque fabric should pass the squat test. Read reviews for “squat proof” and test new leggings in bright light at home.
Flat seams prevent rubbing during repetitive movements like walking and running.
A gusset in leggings and shorts gives you more room to move and reduces seam stress.
Four-way stretch moves with your body in every direction.
Plus size activewear is easier to find than it used to be, and many brands now list inseam lengths and compression levels on product pages. Read those details closely, since they tell you more about fit than the size label does.
The Pieces That Matter Most
Start with these essentials.
A supportive sports bra. This is the most important piece. Choose the support level that matches your activity: low for yoga, medium for walking and strength training, and high for running and high-impact classes. Our best plus size bras guide covers sports bras too.
High-waisted leggings. Look for a wide waistband and squat-proof fabric. Our guide to the best plus size leggings has more tips.
Bike shorts. They’re great for hot weather and prevent thigh chafing during cardio. Our chub rub guide explains why.
A moisture-wicking tank or tee. Choose a length that covers your hips if you prefer more coverage.
Supportive sneakers. The right shoes protect your joints. Get fitted at a running store if you can.
Anti-chafe protection. A balm or stick on your inner thighs and under your bust makes a big difference during longer workouts. Our chub rub guide covers more ways to prevent irritation.
A light layer for warmups. A zip-up jacket or a long-sleeve tee keeps your muscles warm on the walk to the gym and comes off once you get moving.
Shop Whitney’s storefront: plus size high-impact sports bra or plus size high-waisted workout leggings
Dressing for Different Workouts
Different workouts call for different gear.
Walking. Leggings or joggers and supportive walking shoes. Add a light jacket for cool mornings.
Yoga and Pilates. Fitted, stretchy leggings that stay put when you bend, and a fitted top that won’t fall over your face in downward dog.
Strength training. Squat-proof leggings or bike shorts and flat-soled shoes for stability.
Running and cardio classes. A high-support sports bra and anti-chafe protection.
Swimming and water aerobics. A supportive swimsuit designed for movement. Our plus size swimsuits guide has athletic options.
If you’re new to a class or a gym, wear what you already have the first few times and pay attention to what bothers you. A waistband that rolls during squats or a bra that bounces during jumping jacks tells you exactly what to shop for next. That way you spend money on pieces that solve real problems.
Shop Whitney’s storefront: plus size moisture-wicking tank or plus size bike shorts
Caring for Activewear So It Lasts
Performance fabrics need a little special care.
Wash in cold water. Heat breaks down elastic and spandex.
Skip fabric softener. It coats fibers and reduces moisture-wicking.
Air dry. Hang or lay flat to dry. The dryer shortens the life of activewear.
Wash soon after workouts. Letting sweaty clothes sit in a hamper can cause lingering odors.
Replace sports bras regularly. Once the elastic loses its stretch, the bra stops supporting you.
Pay attention to smell, too. Synthetic fabrics can hold onto odor over time, so turn pieces inside out before washing and let sweaty clothes dry before they go in the hamper. A sports bra or pair of leggings that still smells after washing is usually ready to be replaced.
Move With Confidence
Plus size workout clothes should stay put and let you focus on how good it feels to move. Start with a supportive sports bra and moisture-wicking layers, and choose pieces that match your favorite activities. Care for them gently, and they’ll support you through many workouts to come.
Shop Whitney’s favorite activewear on her Amazon storefront, and follow @thatgirlwhitney on Instagram for more plus size outfit ideas.