Sport and fitness enthusiasts across the UK have shared their preferred activewear, emphasising comfort and practicality over cost. Interviews with groups including Zumba dancers in Bristol, marathon runners in Leeds, and sea swimmers in Felixstowe reveal the specific items they rely on.
Zumba participants, such as Sally Gulliford, 57, and Amy Smith, 38, both from Bristol, recommend M&S’s Goodmove ultimate support non-wired sports bra for its secure zip-front design. Lucy Law, 35, a psychological therapist from Yeovil, also rates the F&F active zip-front high support sports bra for its softness. For bottoms, Gymshark’s Light Hold Leggings and Matalan’s Souluxe leggings are praised for staying in place, while Halara’s skorts and skort dresses are popular for their flow.
In Leeds, members of the Lost Culture running club, including Habiba Hassan, 26, an NHS dietitian, and club founder André Lance, 35, focus on breathable and anti-chafing gear. Hassan uses Haya Active essential training tops and Promover yoga trousers, while Lance wears Kiprun’s 2 in 1 long-distance trail running shorts. Runners also highlighted the importance of GPS sport watches, with Nico Junior, 28, favouring a Coros Pace 4, and Hassan recently switching to a Garmin Forerunner 55.
Other groups also shared their preferences; sea swimmers in Felixstowe consistently chose brightly coloured tow floats and swim caps, despite varied opinions on wetsuits. Boxers in east London agreed on the best type of glove but had diverse views on clothing.