The Best Workout Sets, According to 3 Everyday Athletes

The perfect workout set isn’t just a workout set. 

It’s an outfit that supports you through an intense sweat session, followed by post-workout errands. It’s something you slip into under an oversized sweater to get morning coffee knowing you’ll be getting your gym reps in later that day. 

But, sometimes, the right workout set can feel a little elusive. These multi-use garments need to be built with performance in mind—but also need to have everyday wardrobe potential. 

For insights into the hallmarks of solid activewear, we sat down with a dancer, a track star, and a weightlifter. From compression that supports every move to period-proof leggings that let you power through any cycle, we're diving into their top picks from our new activewear collection. 

Spoiler: these women know that comfort and confidence in what you wear go hand in hand when it comes to getting the most out of your workouts.

Tip #1: Comfort Is Non-Negotiable

The best workout sets are comfortable workout sets. Forget about too-tight fabrics and or too-loose straps that fall down as you move—and don't even get us started about leggings that ride up in all the wrong places. 

For dancer Giuliana Carniato, activewear sets that provide a “supportive, moveable, and breathable experience” are a must. When it comes to finding the perfect activewear set, she likes to wear soft fabrics, gentle compression, and elevated design details that allow for seamless movement. 

“Whether it be a 9-hour studio rehearsal or a 90-minute hot yoga class, the last thing I want to be feeling is insecure or uncomfortable in my outfit,” she says. 

Recommended Workout Set: The Engage Medium Impact Sports Bra and Pursuit Leakproof Training Short have a comfortable second-skin feel that supports and lifts, without constricting. 

Tip #2: Feel Good, Play Good

OK, do not underestimate the power of feeling cute at the gym. When you’re feeling confident in your workout fit, chances are, you’re going to hit the stairmaster with a little extra verve. 

Track athlete, Mikella Lefebvre-Oatis, describes wearing a set that makes her feel confident as “crucial.” Mikella, whose sports resume includes 3 world championships and a bronze medal from the Pan American Games, says “what I’m wearing and how I feel in my activewear will determine a large part of my performance.”

“Activewear and confidence are inextricably linked,” according to Giuliana. “How good I feel in what I'm wearing is directly proportional to how good I feel at the end of a workout.” So, mix and match bold colors, find styles that accentuate your assets, and explore silhouettes that make you feel cool at the gym.

Recommended Workout Set: For a workout fit that will turn heads during your post-sweat errand run, opt for the Matchpoint Training Set. The HiTouch Active Contour Tank provides sleek, lightweight support while the LeakStrong Leakproof Skort keeps you covered on and off your period.

Tip #3: Compression = Support

Compression can help provide necessary support while you move your body—especially when it comes to finding a sports bra that minimizes the bounce factor. If you have a larger bust, you know what I’m talking about. 

For softball coach and weight lifter, Myranda Pierson, chest support is an absolute must. “I love wearing sports bras that give me that extra support, so I don’t feel weighed down,” she says. 

Support is a top priority for Mikella, who won’t settle for anything less than adequate compression. “Not having the proper support and compression in activewear will make me turn around and go home—I just can’t perform without it,” she says. 

Recommended Workout Set: For unparalleled support during the most rigorous of movement sessions, make the High Impact Training Set your go-to. Donning the Catalyst Front Zip Sports Bra and the Pursuit Leakproof Training Legging during our activewear photoshoot, Myranda says “I felt supported in my chest, and felt confident and sexy while wearing it.” 

Tip #4: Period Proof Your Workout 

Maybe you’ve heard of period underwear, but have you heard of period-proof leggings (and shorts…and skorts)? Using the same game-changing Leakproof technology of period undies, period-proof activewear provides leak protection—whether it be period leaks, bladder leaks, or the dreaded snail trail. 

“Not only are the new activewear pieces unbelievably flattering, but the period-proof design is simply revolutionary,” says Giuliana. “Being able to workout without worrying about leaking, or stopping to change a tampon is so awesome.”

Recommended Workout Set: Wearing the Support System Active Set will make leaks an afterthought. The Catalyst Sports Bra is our most supportive sports bra ever, while the LeakStrong Leakproof Legging is designed to be worn commando and boasts built-in leak absorption. 

Tip #5: Find the Right Fit

In order for activewear to do its thing, it needs to fit right. Not sure what your bra size is? Book a virtual fitting or measure your bust from home. Once you’ve figured out your size, get a sense of the silhouettes that work best for your unique shape and needs. 

“Considering I am a mid-size girly, finding the right activewear is a little bit more challenging,” shares Myranda. This means finding shorts that don’t roll up and leggings that fit the bum-hip-thigh area without gaping at the waist. “When these things happen, it becomes distracting during my lift, and I constantly have to adjust myself to feel my best,” according to Myranda. 

Recommended Workout Set: For a seamless fit that stays in place while you move, make friends with the HiTouch Active Contour Tank and LeakStrong Leakproof Legging. It’s a set that moves with your body as you move. 

Tip #6: Look for Thoughtful Design Details

Think about the design details that matter most to you when it comes to activewear. Are legging pockets a must so you can listen to music on your phone while lifting? Are you after an activewear set that will see you through your workout routine no matter the weather? 

These small details have the ability to seriously elevate the look and feel of your workout sets. “When I think of elevated activewear, I think of innovation and proper clothing construction,” says Mikella. “I like to know my clothing was designed with performance in mind, whether that be moisture-wicking fabric, thoughtful compression, or waterproof design.” 

Recommended Workout Set: For a three-piece set that’s versatile and built for just about any environment, there’s the Rain or Shine Training Set. Between the Engage Medium Impact Sports Bra, Pursuit Leakproof Training Short, and Pursuit Training Jacket this combo is basically Leakproof from the inside out.

Tip #7: Embrace Freedom of Movement 

How can you reach a flow state when you’re constantly tugging, pulling, and adjusting? That’s why the best activewear and athleisure sets allow for freedom of movement. Whether she’s dancing or leading a pilates class, Giuliana needs to be able to flow and articulate her limbs freely. 

“One minute you could be standing upright in a tree pose, and before you know it you’re upside down in a downward dog with one leg in the air,” says Giuliana. “The last thing I want to be thinking about in these moments—for both the pursuit of flow and safety—is having to readjust straps or waistbands.”

Recommended Workout Set: If a seamless, supportive set is what you’re after, we can’t think of a better duo than the HiTouch Active Contour Tank and LeakStrong Leakproof Legging.