What is considered plus size?

For women, the fashion industry identifies Plus Size clothing as sizes 18 and over (often called “Misses’ sizes), 14W to 24W (and sometimes 26W), or sizes XL to 5XL. Beyond these, there are “super” or “extended sizes,” such as 7XL. According to a recent study, the average American woman wears between a Misses size 16 to 18, which corresponds to a Women’s Plus size 20W. Many companies are aiming to make strides for outfitting the average American. For example, the size-inclusive brand Universal Standard sizes their clothing from 00 to 40.

While a plus-size person with a BMI of 25 would technically be considered overweight, and a BMI of 30 is considered obese by the World Health Organization , this isn’t exactly a fair measure. Using BMI exclusively to categorize obesity is problematic because it doesn’t account for varying body types, heights, or body composition variables like fat, muscle, and water storage. One can have a larger body frame but still be a healthy body weight.

What is the best exercise for an overweight person?

Our expert trainers all agree that fitness isn’t just for everyone, it’s for every body . “I don't think being plus size limits one from certain exercises. Injuries or conditions are more concerning,” says Elizabeth Dobson , CPT. If you’ve been cleared to hit the gym, ease into it with activities that you enjoy. Whether it’s walking, weight training, biking, or dance aerobics, try to work up to the American Heart Association (AHA) ’s recommendation of at least 150 minutes every week of moderate exercise, or 75 minutes every week of vigorous exercise. That’s a goal of 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

The 16 Best Plus-size Workout Clothes of 2023

Workout clothes that are both functional and stylish can make a person feel comfortable in their curves—and they can even help you stick to a fitness routine. The best plus-size workout clothes provide support, comfort, coverage, and durability.

Activewear should be supportive, breathable, and affordable, and can make you more comfortable and successful while exercising. “If you feel amazing in your leggings and sports bra, you will most likely walk into any fitness studio or gym feeling more confident, and that will carry over into how you perform during your workout,” says Kaitlin Humphreys, Regional CPT, and Coach at Orangetheory Fitness, Los Angeles. “Your gear can contribute to whether you make it to class or skip that early morning sweat sesh. If you lay out a cute set or a new pair of shoes in the morning, you are much more likely to get up and go for that run, class, or bike ride!”

Other features to look for include ease of cleaning and if the brand and clothes are eco-friendly and socially conscious. We researched activewear from size-inclusive activewear brands with these features in mind.

Here are the best plus-size workout clothes on the market, according to a certified personal trainer.

Our Top Picks

Best Tank Top:

Reebok Core 10 Women's Asymmetrical Burnout Tank at Amazon

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Best T-shirt for Men:

Under Armour Men's Tech 2.0 Short Sleeve at Amazon

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Best T-shirt for Women:

Athleta Ultimate Train Fitted Tee at Gap.com

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Best Shorts for Men:

Adidas Men's Designed 2 Move 3-Stripes Cool Shorts at Amazon

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Best Shorts for Women:

Superfit Hero Superhold Pocket Bike Shorts at Superfithero.com

Jump to Review

Best Leggings for Men:

Under Armour Men's HeatGear Leggings at Amazon

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Best Leggings for Women:

Girlfriend Collective High-Rise Pocket Legging at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Joggers:

Athleta Salutation Jogger at Gap.com

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Best Men’s Sweatpants:

BALEAF Men's Workout Jogger Pant at Amazon

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Best High-impact Sports Bra:

SheFit Ultimate Sports Bra at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.7

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Lightweight
Moisture-wicking fabric
Good coverage
Affordable

Cons

Slightly short for long torsos

We like this tank top because it's lightweight, versatile, and affordable. It has a high crew neck and an asymmetrical hem that provides coverage as you bend, lift, and jump. Reebok's Speedwick fabric wicks sweat, keeping you cool and dry with the help of a left-side vent slit. Soft to the touch, it drapes without clinging and can be layered. Reviewers note that the top is easy to clean and doesn't shrink after washing. The iconic Reebok logo is integrated into the geometric burnout design that provides sheer yet full coverage.

Available in multiple colors, this is one of many activewear items in Reebok’s size-inclusive collaboration with Core10 for Amazon. Their extended size line is hip and colorful and has you covered for home, gym, or leisure with sports bras, leggings, shorts, tanks, joggers, sweatshirts, and more.

Price at time of publication: $25

^{Key Specs:
Fit: Loose but tailored | Fabric Technology: Speedwick fabric and breathable vent | Sizes: XXS to 4XL | Care & Washability: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low, or line dry}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Champssports.com

Pros

Quick-dry fabric
Anti-odor material
Variety of colors
Versatile

Cons

Inconsistent sizing

Under Armour updated the fit of this men's tee from its previous version, and the result is streamlined, soft, versatile, and cooling. “Under Armour is great for those who lift weights and have a heavier frame,” says Joshua Dais, CPT. While it's made with polyester, the durable material boasts moisture-wicking technology that is anti-odor, fast-drying, and resilient. “The type of material makes a world of difference,” adds Dais. “Too much lycra and spandex will have you feeling super sweaty and constantly grabbing at your shirt.”

Available in dozens of colors, long sleeve, V-neck, and half-zip versions, this relaxed crew tee fits comfortably and features the simple but classic UA logo for a stylish, long-lasting addition to your gear.

Price at time of publication: $25

^{Key Specs:
Fit: Streamlined, relaxed | Fabric Technology: Moisture-wicking polyester | Sizes: XS to 5XL | Care & Washability: Machine wash, tumble dry low, or line dry}

Courtesy of Athleta

View On Gap.com

Pros

Moisture-wicking fabric
Multiple colors and prints
Eco-friendly materials
Sun-protective fabric

Cons

Not a wide size range

This lightweight, wrinkle-resistant shirt is made with moisture-wicking Super Sonic fabric, providing a cling-free fit that pulls perspiration from your body for speedy evaporation. With a crew neck and short sleeves, the shirt provides good length and coverage that breathes during medium- to high-impact workouts in the gym, studio, or outdoors. It's also made from UPF 30+ material for sun protection.

From stylish prints to earthy textures, this tee comes in several colors, prints, and design variations. It even comes in tank or long-sleeve options, which is great news for those of us who want the same feel in multiple styles.

Price at time of publication: $59

^{Key Specs:
Fit: Relaxed | Fabric Technology: Super Sonic recycled nylon, spandex | Sizes: XXS to XXL | Care & Washability: Machine wash and dry}

Courtesy of Adidas

View On Amazon View On Adidas.com

Pros

Pockets for storage
Adjustable drawstring
Mesh inserts for breathability
Eco-conscious recycled polyester

Cons

Coverage may be restrictive
Pockets not good for large phones

You can’t get much more iconic than Adidas, and the high-quality brand continues to make strides in fashion and function to keep up with the times. Made of eco-conscious, recycled polyester, Adidas’ Climacool interlock fabric technology makes these bottoms cool and moisture-wicking.

Mesh inserts along the short’s back waistline contribute additional breathability, and side pockets store items like keys, cash, or smaller smartphones. The long inseam provides great coverage while the drawcord and elastic waist allow for an adjustable fit. While they might be a bit bulky for running, these wallet-friendly shorts are great for the gym and strength workouts, such as using a balance board.

Price at time of publication: $40

^{Key Specs:
Rise: Standard | Fabric Technology: Climacool moisture-wicking polyester | Length: 9-inch and 10-inch inseam | Sizes: XXS to 6XL | Care & Washability: Machine wash cold and tumble dry low | Pockets: Two side pockets}

Courtesy of Superfit Hero

View On Superfithero.com

Pros

Great non-slip, lower-body coverage
Good compression support
Moisture-wicking fabric
Try-before-you-buy program
Eco and socially conscious company

Cons

Expensive

The signature SUPERHOLD fabric lends soft, supportive compression to its non-slip and chafe-free waistline. Smoothing flatlock seams make these bottoms ultra-flattering as you move, and the recycled polyester and color block design pairs easily with the brand’s matching bras or your own tops. The classic biker short length complements any size, shape, or height. Superfit Hero’s shorts also include a lot of pockets for handy items like smartphones and keys.

Aside from the excellent "try-before-you-buy policy," the progressive Los Angeles-based brand features a simple size guide to help you select the right size and see the sizes in action. Additionally, you can hop onto the company’s Body Positive Fitness Finder to locate an inclusive trainer near you, or find fitness support through their blog and community dedicated to the “body-positive fitness revolution."

Price at time of publication: $75

^{Key Specs:
Fit: High-rise | Fabric Technology: SUPERHOLD polyester, spandex | Sizes: Large to 7XL | Length: 9-inch and 11-inch inseam | Care & Washability: Gentle cycle or hand wash cold water, line dry, no fabric softener | Pockets: Side pockets}

4.8

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Academy.com

Pros

Moisture-wicking fabric
Anti-odor fabric technology
Pocket for storage
Regular and tall inseams available

Cons

No drawstring
Few color options

These ultra-light, full-length compression leggings are great for layering in the gym or outdoors. Comfortable but durable, they feature UA HeatGear fabric to keep you cool and moisture-wicking material that keeps you dry when you work up a sweat. Its side Strength Pocket can securely store a standard-size smartphone or keys.

Strong, flat seam stitching is designed to prevent chafing, while the 2-inch wide, non-slip waistband and gusseted pouch keeps all assets comfortably in place. Available in a cold-weather version (view at Under Armour)—which conversely makes use of their ColdGear technology to keep you warm—the leggings utilize anti-odor fabric properties to prevent the growth of odor-causing microbes.

Price at time of publication: $35

^{Key Specs:
Fit: Mid-rise | Fabric Technology: UA HeatGear polyester, elastane | Sizes: XXS to 4XL | Length: 28-inch and 30-inch inseam | Care & Washability: Machine wash cold and tumble dry low, no fabric softener | Pockets: Side pocket}

Girlfriend Collective

View On Amazon View On Girlfriend.com

Pros

Great compression fit
Durable, long-lasting material
Wide range of colors and sizes
Two inseam options
Eco-conscious

Cons

Expensive
Run slightly small

Squat-proof and fully opaque, these durable and sweat-wicking leggings have the same compression as the original Girlfriend Collective high-rise legging, but with side pockets for your smartphone, wallet, vitamins, or other items. While the pocketed version only features two inseam options to the aforementioned’s three, the addition of pockets feels entirely worth the compromise. Pair with a variety of Girlfriend Collective’s complementary tops in flattering color palettes to keep that workout wardrobe feeling fresh, and the brand's sport brief—one of the best underwear for workouts—for complete comfort.

A sustainable, ethical, and size-inclusive brand, Girlfriend Collective recycles 25 post-consumer water bottles into soft yarn that’s woven with spandex to create their leggings. And once you’re finished with them, you can recycle them once more through the brand’s program and earn store credit.

Price at time of publication: $88

^{Key Specs:
Fit: High-rise | Fabric Technology: Moisture-wicking, recycled polyester and spandex | Sizes: XXS to 6XL | Length: 28.5-inch and 23.75-inch inseam | Care & Washability: Machine wash cold and line dry flat | Pockets: Side pockets}

Athleta

View On Gap.com

Pros

Pockets for storage
Supportive waistband
Moisture-wicking fabric
Multiple color options

Cons

Expensive

Protective and sweat-wicking, these layerable leggings have an excellent UPF rating of 50+. The high waist keeps up with coverage between every child’s pose and downward dog, while the flexible nylon-lycra-blend breathes to keep you cool and dry during that steamy yoga burn.

Athleta used their buttery-soft Powervita fabric to support the stomach and smooth the lines underneath. Plus, a form-flattering curve seam starts above the rear and extends down the back of the thighs for extra garment durability. Available in versatile neutral shades as well as a camo version, these joggers are stylish enough to wear outside your daily workout.

Price at time publication: $89

^{Key Specs:
Fit: High-rise | Fabric Technology: Moisture-wicking nylon, lycra | Sizes: 00 to 26 (XXS to XXXL) | Length: 24.5-inch, 26.5-inch, 29-inch, and 29.5-inch inseam | Care & Washability: Machine cold and dry | Pockets: Side pockets}

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Several pockets for storage
Drawstring
Zipper leg openings
Moisture-wicking fabric

Cons

Short inseams

This sweatpant-jogger hybrid from Baleaf is perfect for any workout, with excellent four-way stretch and UPF 50+ sun protection. The lightweight, quick-dry material is made of polyester and spandex for swiftly wicking away sweat. The elastic waistband with a flat drawstring helps them feel secure, and the zippered leg openings allow for easy on and off.

Whether you're on a hike or doing a HIIT circuit, the five pockets have you set for storage. Thanks to two zippered side pockets—which can securely house a larger smartphone—one side-zip thigh pocket, and two back pockets with hook-and-loop fasteners, all your items will be there when you need them. Affordable and available in neutral colors, these pants are sure to be one of your favorites.

Price at time of publication: $34

^{Key Specs:
Fit: Standard | Fabric Technology: Moisture-wicking polyester and spandex | Sizes: XS to XXXL | Length: 27.5 inch-, 27.75 inch-, 28 inch-, and 28.4 inch-inseam | Care & Washability: Machine wash and dry | Pockets: Five pockets}

4.8

SheFit

View On Amazon View On Shefit.com

Pros

Supportive
Lightweight and comfortable
Adjustable for fit
Removable pads
Helpful size-finder quiz

Cons

Expensive

SheFit’s Ultimate Sports Bra stacks an impressive list of features for even the most intense athletic moves. The brand’s patented Zip. Cinch. Lift. technology introduces adjustment capabilities that make standard strap and hook closures look downright outdated.

Adjustable, cushioned shoulder straps can be configured as an “H”- or “X”-back, and the flat bust band is used to stabilize movement for bounce reduction. Each breast is cared for with wireless Compression and Encapsulation Tech and removable padding, while moisture-wicking material allows for breathability. Plus, hidden hook-and-eye clasps keep the zipper from unzipping during your high-impact workouts.

The brand, which offers a size-finder quiz, produces light- and medium-impact bras for all chest sizes and body types. They come in a variety of flattering solids and patterns, and SheFit continues to create other clothing compatible with their bras—like their line of tanks (view at SHEFIT).

Price at time of publication: $75

^{Key Specs:
Cup Type: Compression | Fabric Technology: Zip. Cinch. Lift. technology, Compression & Encapsulation Tech | Sizes: XS to 6XL | Care & Washability: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, lay flat to dry | Adjustability: None}

Courtesy of Spanx

View On Spanx

Pros

Supportive compression
Moisture-wicking fabric
Won’t chafe

Cons

Few color options

Not just for women, Spanx carries a line for men looking to streamline their physique. Available in a crew- or V-neck T-shirt, this seamless tank provides sculpting that breathes and wicks away perspiration when worn on its own or under layers. The nylon and elastane composition offers breathability, and the flattering silhouette is designed for multiple body types.

Seamless and strong compression support for the waist, chest, and lower back keep the core tight. And you can finally ditch the preventative band aids, as this basic essential won’t chafe due to seamless construction.

Price at time of publication: $65

^{Key Specs:
Support Type: Compression | Fabric Technology: Moisture-wicking nylon and elastane | Sizes: XS to 6XL | Care & Washability: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, tumble dry low | Adjustability: None}

Courtesy of Universal Standard

View On Universalstandard.com

Pros

Antimicrobial fabric
Supportive compression
Free shipping and returns
Try-before-you-buy program
Socially conscious brand

Cons

Limited colors and patterns
Contains inseams that might chafe

A favorite for yoga, pilates, and lifting, this full-length bodysuit is a great option for anyone who has issues with leggings rolling down at the waist. The contoured waistband holds in but doesn’t constrict, preventing any riding up or falling down. Its strategic seams and high neckline make it pleasantly flattering for all body types. Universal Standard dispels sweat concerns with their high-quality, antimicrobial nylon and black lycra fabric, which wicks moisture.

While the bodysuit has no built-in bra or padding, the contoured stitching underneath the bust provides comfortable support—meaning you can pair it with a sports bra of your own, or choose not to. Universal Standard earns extra feel-good points with its community activism, body-inclusive Fit Liberty garment replacement policy, and eco-conscious recycling program.

Price at time of publication: $118

^{Key Specs:
Support Type: Compression | Fabric Technology: Antimicrobial, moisture-wicking nylon, lycra | Sizes: 3XS to 4XL | Length: 27-inch inseam | Care & Washability: Machine wash cold, gentle cycle, tumble dry low | Adjustability: Adjustable straps}

Courtesy of Girlfriend

View On Girlfriend.com

Pros

Unisex style and sizes
Roomy feel for comfort
Eco-conscious, sustainable
Versatile

Cons

Expensive
Best for before or after workouts

This cozy, unisex sweatshirt is so comfortable that you can just as easily wear it for lounge time as for a cold-weather workout. It's easy to slip on and off, and the boxy construction fits well over your workout gear so you can get down to business after a warmup. The front kangaroo pocket can keep your hands warm between transitions and can loosely hold cold-weather gloves or hats as you shed layers.

Made from the scraps of cutting room floors, the top’s Texloop RCOT Recycled Cotton and organic cotton blend are transformed into a 100 percent biodegradable pullover. On-trend with its classic drawstring hood and raglan sleeves, the vintage throwback is a fashion-forward take available in a number of rich, earthy hues.

Price at time of publication: $88

^{Key Specs:
Fit: Classic relaxed | Sizes: XXS to 7XL | Care & Washability: Machine cold, lay flat to dry | Pockets: Front kangaroo pocket}

Courtesy of Nike

View On Nike.com

Pros

Storage for phone
Flexible, comfortable material
Adjustable hood
Moisture-wicking fabric

Cons

Expensive
Not waterproof

Not too thin and not too thick, this training jacket is great during or after your daily drills in environments ranging from cool to warm. While the jacket isn’t waterproof or cold-weather insulating, it does keep the core warm and breathes exceptionally well. Nike’s Flex fabric stretches with every stride, while Dri-FIT technology evaporates sweat. The elastic hood and zipper closure stay comfortably secure during windy day circuits, and the elastic cuffs will give you protection from the elements.

Nike’s streamlined design includes zippered front pockets for all routine essentials and a dedicated internal pocket to keep your smartphone safe but accessible. Overall, the sleek structure and iconic logo on the upper left chest make this a trendy, fashion-forward staple that can pair with the line’s variety of matching bottoms.

^{Key Specs:
Fit: Standard, relaxed | Fabric Technology: Moisture-wicking Dri-FIT polyester, Flex fabric | Sizes: Small to 4XL | Care & Washability: Machine wash, tumble dry low | Pockets: Two front, one inside for phone}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Apparelnbags.com

Pros

Moisture-wicking fabric
Multiple color options
Waterproof fabric
Adjustable hood and waist

Cons

Slightly short in the torso

If rain is what's getting between you and your workout, the Switchback III Jacket from Columbia will help you reach your fitness goals no matter the weather. Crafted with what the brand calls Hydroplus fabric, the nylon shell repels water to keep you dry. Thanks to the lightweight composition, it won't add bulk to your look.

Handy features like adjustable cuffs will keep you warm, and the protective hood—which can be stored away in a zippered pocket—is a helpful feature for those unpredictable downpours.

Price at time of publication: $75

^{Key Specs:
Fit: Classic cut | Fabric Technology: Waterproof Hydroplus nylon, polyester | Sizes: XS to XXXL | Care & Washability: Machine wash | Pockets: Two front, two inside}

Courtesy of Fabletics

View On Fabletics.com

Pros

Supportive compression
Moisture-wicking fabric
Great sun protection
Great refund policy

Cons

Must be a member for discount

This popular set features Fabletics’ On-The-Go Ultra-High Waisted ⅞ leggings that provide maxed-out hold. Slip them on for any activity while the PowerHold fabric with InstaBoost compression hugs and sculpts your curves. Generous side and hidden pockets supply safe storage for important items, and since they feature mesh panels along the outer leg, heat can easily escape for ultimate breathability.

Besides the soft, supportive comfort of the set’s matching sports bra, two handy internal and external pockets on the racerback are our favorite features. With removable pads and great coverage that breathes, the medium-impact bra holds well enough to be worn for high-impact workouts, from a Zumba class to time on the rowing machine.

The set is UPF 50+ sun protective and can be mixed and matched with a variety of Fabletics pieces. The size-inclusive gallery of varying model types is as progressive as their nice 45 Day Workout Guarantee, a positive bonus for those of us who get gun shy with new items.

^{Key Specs:
Top Cup Type: Compression | Top Adjustability: None | Pant Fit: High-rise | Pant fabric Technology: InstaBoost compression | Set sizes: 0 to 24 (XXS to 4X) | Pant Length: ⅞ length | Set Care & Washability: Machine wash cold and line dry flat | Pockets: Yes}

Final Verdict

Whatever gear you choose, it’s important to select items that help you move safely and with confidence to achieve whatever wellness goals you hold. For women, the Fabletics Amplify 2-Piece Outfit (view at Fabletics) sculpts your natural curves while also providing hidden pockets. As an alternative to shorts, the fabric allows heat to escape while pulling moisture from the body.

For men, the Nike Men’s Full-Zip Training Jacket (view at Nike) checks all the boxes. It has smart mobility, storage, and fashion-forward style. Although it’s not waterproof, it allows breathability and good coverage against the elements.

What to Look for in Plus-Size Workout Clothing

Compression Support

For many plus-size women, snug clothing may trigger negative emotions—but for support, a snug fit is necessary. Regardless of gender, one should consider what is needed for upper body support: a comfortable but snug fit to hold the upper body in place during high-impact movement. Clothing should also feature breathable, moisture-wicking material and adjustable straps, if possible.

For legs and rear, compression is key, and finding the right size is essential. Quality compression fabric, often made out of elastin and nylon, will have proper stretch recovery, which allows the fabric to return to its natural state before it was stretched.

Coverage

Considerations of rise, cut, and opaqueness are essential for feeling comfortable in your workout duds. Look for high-rise and adjustable or snug waistbands in bottoms that will stay up when leaning into that low squat. Up top, note the cut and length of your tees, tanks, and bras. Many tops will cover the rear and provide preferred bust modesty as you bend, lift, and jump.

Conversely, reconsider activewear that provides too much coverage. “Width and length are important,” says Joshua Dais, CPT, referring to men's styles. “Too short and you look boxy, too long and it’s a nightgown.” Beyond fashion, look for streamlined designs that will aid in an efficient and safe movement when doing cardio or weight training.

Breathability and Moisture Management

Workout clothes that breathe are key to keeping cool and dry, so look for fabrics with moisture-wicking characteristics that will manage sweat. Spandex, LYCRA, or elastane blends that contain lightweight nylon or durable polyester provide the ultimate combination of softness, stretch, breathability, moisture management, support, and comfort. Design features like mesh and vents also promote breathability and airflow. Any combination of these will keep you moving comfortably for longer while also keeping odor at bay.

Avoid clothing with a high concentration of cotton. While breathable, cotton absorbs and retains moisture, which can be uncomfortable, unhygienic, and odor-causing. If opting for cotton, choose a blend.

Care and Washability

Since most athletic clothing is made with special blends to keep you dry, these same fabrics will lose their stretch recovery and compression when exposed to heat. Wash activewear in a cold, gentle cycle with like items, avoiding mixing with other friction-causing fabrics like jeans, sweaters, or towels. Avoid using too much detergent and do not use fabric softener, as this can further deteriorate the properties of your gear. Follow drying instructions carefully.

Length of Use

If your fitness goals include weight loss, you could be in for a body transformation as you progress through your program. You might be a bit reluctant to invest in long-term gear and wish to pay less for a fitness wardrobe for the time being. Aim for the best quality and quantity for the money without sacrificing something that will make you feel confident and comfortable. Catch those sales and stock up on tried-and-true items in different colors or patterns.

Eco- and Socially Conscious

As the fashion industry grows more aware of the need to reduce landfill waste and the impact on the environment, technology is becoming even more refined and available to consumers. Fitness brands like Athleta, Merrel, and REI carry items made with sustainable or recycled materials at more affordable price tags than ever.

Look for natural fabric blends, like bamboo, hemp, and soy, which are antimicrobial, moisture-wicking, and super soft. Recycled materials like Repreve (recycled polyester), its generic version RPET, or Vita (recycled fishnets) are also becoming more widely used in activewear. Purchasing from a company with eco-friendly practices or recycling programs can give both you and the Earth a boost.

The growing movement to invest in and support small, BIPOC, and AAPI-owned clothing businesses, like Bandy Cheeks, 8Figured, Mono B, AVRE, is shining light on the importance of social responsibility and equity in the activewear industry. From the models that represent their styles to the messages of empowerment in their marketing, these brands are striving to revolutionize the way we suit up and sweat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered plus size?

For women, the fashion industry identifies Plus Size clothing as sizes 18 and over (often called “Misses’ sizes), 14W to 24W (and sometimes 26W), or sizes XL to 5XL. Beyond these, there are “super” or “extended sizes,” such as 7XL.
According to a recent study, the average American woman wears between a Misses size 16 to 18, which corresponds to a Women’s Plus size 20W. Many companies are aiming to make strides for outfitting the average American. For example, the size-inclusive brand Universal Standard sizes their clothing from 00 to 40.
Is plus size obese?

While a plus-size person with a BMI of 25 would technically be considered overweight, and a BMI of 30 is considered obese by the World Health Organization, this isn’t exactly a fair measure. Using BMI exclusively to categorize obesity is problematic because it doesn’t account for varying body types, heights, or body composition variables like fat, muscle, and water storage.
One can have a larger body frame but still be a healthy body weight.
What is the best exercise for an overweight person?

Our expert trainers all agree that fitness isn’t just for everyone, it’s for every body. “I don't think being plus size limits one from certain exercises. Injuries or conditions are more concerning,” says Elizabeth Dobson, CPT.
If you’ve been cleared to hit the gym, ease into it with activities that you enjoy. Whether it’s walking, weight training, biking, or dance aerobics, try to work up to the American Heart Association (AHA)’s recommendation of at least 150 minutes every week of moderate exercise, or 75 minutes every week of vigorous exercise. That’s a goal of 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

Why Trust Verywell Fit?

A lifelong athlete, avid runner, and certified personal trainer, Jessica Murtaugh knows her way around the gym and is constantly researching the latest and best in activewear, fitness gear, and health trends. As a wellness writer and brand consultant, she researches and reviews products for Verywell Fit. She favors brands that promote size, gender, and race inclusivity in their products and is dedicated to reporting authentic content to her readers.