emsgranny

Is it just me? I joined the local healthplex so my husband and I could "work out" and and can regain some strength in my legs.

If it wasnt bad enough that when they did a bmi (I think thats what it was called) I rated a 29.5 I was told that 30 was obese!!! Wow - I am not really ashamed to admit my weight at about 174 and I am about 5'5" and wear a size 14....Really???? OK they also said they dont go by that tooooo much since it was hard to tell.

If that wasnt enough I decided to go shopping for some comfy workout clothes - nothing fancy - you know just elastic pants and t-shirts. I went from section to section of clothing starting with t-shirts. Everything I found either was form fitting or had some kind of large picture of beach chairs large flowers or Babe written on it - The others were form fitting and so long!!! I did find some that my 75 year old mom would have worn but I am ot there yet!!!

So I had a great idea (so I thought) go to the workout section! much to my surprise those tops were even more form fitting and more expensive. If I looked good enough to wear those clothes I sure wouldnt have signed up for the program! All the outfits and coordinates looked like they would fit anyone that is in great shape, plays tennis etc not a 57 year old grandma with the middle age spread!!!

I will just have to go buy some plain t-shirts at JoAnns or Michaels and cut the bottoms off - They too are waaay too long. but maybe they will cover my belly!!!!

SparkMonkey

You're not the only one. Lots and lots of women complain that workout clothes, running clothes in particular, are hard to find in larger sizes. Heck, even I have a hard time finding tops that fit, and I'm not that big! I'm pretty chesty; apparently runners are supposed to have mosquito bites, not half-gallon jugs.

Did you look in the men's section? My fiance loves the C9 brand running clothes at Target. They're not very expensive, and you'd be more likely to find loose-fitting tops there. The colors aren't very exciting, but fit is more important.

As for the BMI thing, it's really hit-and-miss. It doesn't take into account your frame, where you carry your weight, etc. A better progress report is to measure your bust, waist, and hips (and thighs/upper arms if you want) and keep track of how much smaller they get. Muscle is denser than fat, so as you tone up you may not lose much poundage, but your overall size will shrink.

Good for you wanting to get healthier! I believe that everything we do--yes, even quilting--is more enjoyable when we've got a healthy body. :)

sewgull

Joining a gym or spa is just the first expensive. I agree the workout attire is the next major cost. But the showing off of the gentle over size body is not cute.
Have fun and get the body going.

Lisanne

If you're looking for simple, plain t-shirts and sweats or shorts, did you try Target, Wal-mart and Kmart? I need large sizes, and that's where I get my workout clothes. Prices are rock-bottom. You are kind of stuck with solid colors if you want to avoid the big goofy pictures on the t-shirts, but if you look in the women's section, the clothes are there. The shirts do cover you and if you avoid the spandex, it won't be form fitting.

flowerjoy

You may find that after a few months you will also fit into the smaller sizes... even a grandma at 57... your "middle age spread" will disappear... "spread" isn't due to being 57... keep it up and you will find out... good luck... the more you participate, the more you will enjoy it and the more energy you will have...

catrancher

I work out in leggings and extra large t-shirts. The t-shirts are tunic length and very roomy. Works for me. I refuse to participate in the "fashion check".

Alex J

I'm with catrancher I'm not about to participate in the "fashion check" I went to the men department brought tee shirts and sweat pants. If the fashion police don't care for it, all well. Some women wear those form fitting and my daughter and I go WOW, I guess the looking glass cut off at the head. LOL My thing is to focus on the work-out and never mind the rest.

meemersmom

Do you have a Fashion Bug near you? They may have what you're looking for. I buy my "weekend wear" from them. i really like their cotton knit elastic waist pants. Many also have coordinating jackets and t-shirts. Machine wash and dry, too.

charity-crafter

I'm on the plush side also. I wear spandex and big t-shirts. I like the form fitting bottoms, kind of helps out the chub-rub when doing aerobics.

emsgranny

Thaks for the input!!! Yes I tried Wal-mart but all the womens tees seem to be fairly form fitting. I am by no means looking to be a fashion diva lol In the winter I have sweat pants and sweatshirts - just wanted something similar in lightweight clothing. I will try kmart and target thanks

I have the problem that I have no chest so all the necks etc are very large but I need a larger size to fit over the belly roll lol