Picture the 6 a.m. class: Nike training shoes laced, an Athleta short and seamless tee on, and a crossbody holding the essentials. These gym class looks for women pair Nike training shoes with Athleta shorts, tops, bags and a headband, so you can bui...
This is the shoe for jump squats, box steps and short sprints in one class, since the Metcon family is built for mixed training. I'd choose it over a running shoe whenever the workout is more lifting and jumping than distance.
Nike Free Metcon 7
Mesh Racer is the short I'd grab for cardio days, with a 4-inch inseam and mid rise. A 4.8 average over 12,000 reviews says plenty of people agree.
Athleta Mesh Racer Run Mid Rise 4" Short
Layer a seamless tee under a zip jacket for the warm-up, then peel the jacket off once you're sweating. I like the smooth, no-seam feel for rowing and squats.
Athleta Momentum Seamless Tee
A budget-friendly training shoe for beginners starting group classes. I think it's a solid first pair before you invest in a pricier Metcon.
Nike MC Trainer 4
Reax 8 TR is meant for HIIT-style classes with lots of jumping and quick turns. I like pairing it with a light run short.
Nike Reax 8 TR
Skip it if you only walk on the treadmill; this is a heavy-lifting, high-intensity shoe. I like that the SE is a more affordable way into the Metcon 10.
Nike Metcon 10 SE
For a hot studio, a 3-inch run short keeps things light and lets me move freely through lunges and burpees. I like pairing it with a seamless tank for an easy everyday gym look.
Athleta Weekender High Rise 3" Run Short
Ultra high rise 5-inch is the one for squats and stretching because it stays put at the waist. I like it for floor work like pilates.
Athleta Elation Ultra High Rise 5" Short
The cotton terry shortie is a soft pick for stretch-heavy classes and post-workout errands. I like pairing it with the ribbed scoop tee.
Athleta Airy Cotton Terry Shortie
A skort gives the coverage of a skirt with built-in shorts underneath. I think it works for tennis, pickleball or lighter classes.
Athleta Crosscourt High Rise 14" Skort
This one has tipped trim that gives it a more polished look than most gym bottoms. I think it goes best with a plain white tee, and I like that the built-in shorts let me move comfortably.
Athleta Ace A-Line Tipped 15.5" Skort
The ribbed scoop tee goes straight from class to coffee without looking like a gym top. I'll wear it with high-rise shorts.
Athleta Signature Rib Scoop Tee
Seamless tank is the pick for the sweatiest sessions, since fewer layers keep you cooler. I like it under an open jacket for the walk in.
Athleta Momentum Seamless Tank
The Move With Ease Tee is a relaxed everyday top that feels soft and loose on me. I think it works well for low-impact classes like yoga or barre, and it also holds up for running errands afterward.
Athleta Move With Ease Tee
A long sleeve top is what I reach for on cool morning classes or outdoor warm-ups. I like to layer it over a tank when temperatures drop, then peel it off once I am warmed up.
Athleta BodyMove Crew Neck Long Sleeve Top
The All About Tote has enough room for my shoes, a towel and a water bottle without feeling bulky. I think it makes a really good gym bag for anyone who hops between classes during the week.
Athleta All About Tote Bag
A lighter tote for studio days when you only carry a towel and a few essentials. I like it as the grab-and-go second bag.
Athleta Logo Tote Bag
I wear the belt bag across the body for the walk to class so my hands stay free. It holds my keys and a phone comfortably, and it stays put when I move, which I really appreciate.
Athleta All About Large Crossbody Belt Bag
A small crossbody is my go-to for the essentials on days when I only want to carry a phone and a card. It keeps me light on my feet and is easy to toss over a gym outfit on the way out.
Athleta Diem Crossbody Bag
The Nike Flex Train is the shoe I would lace up for post-work classes where I move between cardio and strength. It feels light and flexible underfoot, and I like it with leggings or shorts for a quick change from the office.
Nike Flex Train
The Nike Hybrid RN is a training shoe I like for mixing short runs with floor work in the same session. It feels cushioned yet stable, and I would pair it with a tee and run shorts for a simple class look.