When it comes to clothes, I’m a little embarrassed about how many I have.

They tumble out of the wardrobe, chest of drawers and lay in piles. (I’m very messy!) It’s a source of stress for both me and Tom, and I regularly have to do culls to donate, give away and recycle.

When I had the idea to sell some of the clothes I didn’t wear to raise money for the California CampFire fund, I pulled out a few items, mostly clothes I hadn’t worn before. They sold so quickly, that I was more ruthless going through my wardrobe a second time (and third). I had a number of items that I didn’t wear, either because they didn’t fit properly, they weren’t quite right for what I needed them for (leggings without pockets…no thanks), they didn’t suit me, or I had very similar items already.

And we raised nearly £500 for those affected by the California Campfire.

Its amazing how good a clear out makes you feel.

But more than that, having a small selection of items that just work. Leggings that stay up without digging into my waist (I am not a small in all brands I have learned), or that are see through so can’t be worn to the gym/yoga/infront of people. Tops that don’t require pulling down every three steps, that don’t make me feel uncomfortable in my own body. And most importantly, bras that provide enough support and don’t chafe.

I’ve always thought that there was a certain ‘look’ for instagram fitness pics, the matching bra top and leggings…but in reality, I do not like wearing that (nor do I suit that). So I ditched them, and kept just two drawers that I narrowed my sports kit down to (I know, still a lot), to the items that I liked most and that made me feel MY best.

It seems I’m not alone in feeling that a workout in clothes that make me feel good make for a better workout!

 

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This isn’t a flattering picture but it’s reality. The reality of marathon training isn’t glamorous (for me anyway!) Not all of my runs include gorgeous sunrises or spectacular views. This one was done on a treadmill, where I nearly vommed…twice and forgot my headphones. I gave myself 12 minutes to shower and change, meaning this beetroot face and sweaty upper lip followed me right to the office (not to mention wet hair in a topknot). ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ And these leggings make me look about 4ft tall… into the charity bag they go ??‍♀️ #marathontraining #reality #treadmillworkout #sweatyselfie @payasugym

A post shared by Charlie-Running/Active Travel (@therunnerbeans) on Nov 15, 2018 at 4:03am PST

Current Faves; 

• Triumph Triaction Sports Bras
• Highwaisted Black/Navy Leggings – with pockets
• Mid-thigh tight shorts
• Pro Compression long socks or Feetures ankle socks
• Tank
• 1/2 zip long sleeve or round neck long sleeve

These are the items I go to time and again, and so, aside from a waterproof jacket, some thermal leggings/long sleeve, they are all I have in my chest of drawers. No more of the leggings that made me feel too big, or short, or that my boobs were too cumbersome. No more cheap fabrics that ride up, or itch. I’m investing in pieces that make my run better, that make me feel…better. Faster. Stronger.

It sounds silly, but it really does. When i put on my fave outfit and head out for a run, I feel invincible.

I know that workout gear can be expensive, and I am guilty of spending too much on it. In fact, I spend £100+ on a pair of Lululemon leggings, yet will pay max £40 for a pair of jeans. But for me, it’s worth it to pay the extra for something I’m going to put blood (after this morning – check out my insta stories to see more), sweat and tears into. And will expect so much of.

I buy items that make me feel great. That hold me in the right places, flatter my body, that enhance my workout rather than hindering it. Clothes that stand up to the wind, rain, 20 milers, track sessions and a lot of mud!

How many items do you have in your wardrobe that you don’t wear? That you keep for *one day*, that don’t quite fit right, or that you’re hoping one day to be the right size for? Or items that you feel guilty for buying, that were expensive but you don’t wear… (or am I the only one guilty of that?!)

What do you look for it your fitness kit? What pieces are you loving right now?