Bodybuilding is no longer just a sport, its a culture, a religion, a lifestyle followed by millions across the world. Bodybuilding has reached and influenced all cultures and countries. Bodybuilding is an art form that demands the athlete to wear the right clothing, not only to perform at their best but to show off the physique they have laboured over. Bodybuilding clothing has evolved over the years, but seems to still hold onto its old school roots. Bodybuilding gear has switched from being purely functional to a fashion statement in the fitness world. We will explore the different clothing styles, origins and iconic brands that have played a crucial role in the direction of the modern bodybuilding attire.
The Origins and Evolution of Bodybuilding Clothes
During the beginnings of the bodybuilding boom period, the clothing choices were all about looking ready to work, being functional and comfortable. Often gym goers would recycle old oversized baggy gym t-shirts that would fit their broad shoulders but the sleeves would often reach the elbows, this allowed for optimal range of motion when lifting weights. The early bodybuilding brands focussed on producing garments that offered maximum mobility but also highlighted the athletes physique. This led bodybuilding brands to develop iconic styles such as rag tops, stringer vests, and even specialist bodybuilding shoes.
- Rag Tops: As described above rag tops were born from oversized old t-shirts. Rag tops, characterised by their loose fit and torn or ‘ragged’ and worn aesthetic, became very popular in the 1970s and 1980s. These bodybuilding tops allowed bodybuilders to move freely and show off their muscles without restriction. Often the heaviest weight lifters were unable to fit into off the shelf gym tshirts, therefore they had to wear 4XL+ sizes which would fit the shoulders but not the waist or sleeves. Giving way to this now iconic style.
- Stringer Vests: The gym stringer vest, another classic bodybuilding wardrobe piece, and is known for its minimal coverage and thin ‘string’ like shoulder straps, offering an unrestricted range of motion and maximum exposure of the bodybuilder’s physique. The stringer vest still remains as one of our top selling items across our whole store. This style gym top was famously worn by Arnold Schwarzenegger.
- Bodybuilding Shoes: Footwear has evolved greatly in the bodybuilding world. With brands now developing specialist footwear with a flat sole, and high ankle, in a boot/high top style. Allowing for maximum contact with the ground thus providing stability and balance during lifting, and maximum support around the ankle. Bodybuilding shoes have evolved from basic designs to more sophisticated ones, offering better support and durability. Gorilla Wear have pioneered the development of bodybuilding footwear.
Iconic Brands: From Gold’s Gym to GASP
- Gold’s Gym and World Gym: These brands are not just physical gym locations but also pioneers in the bodybuilding clothing industry. Gold’s Gym, in particular, became synonymous with bodybuilding in the 70s and 80s, thanks to its association with legends like Arnold Schwarzenegger. The classic logo print Golds Gym t shirts and Golds gym stringer vests have become iconic in the fitness world and have been a top choice for decades by lifters.
- GASP: Representing the modern era of bodybuilding clothing, and pushing boundaries in fabric development and styles. GASP clothes offers apparel that blends classic styles with contemporary designs. GASP have been leaders in the development of bodybuilder specific garments. Including their denim jeans to be worn outside the gym that allow for a bodybuilders narrow waist and large quads and calves. Their mens gym clothing is tailored to meet the needs of today’s bodybuilders, combining functionality with the latest fashion trends. GASP’s range includes everything from traditional stringer vests to modern, high-performance training tank tops, hoodies, and sweatshirts.
Modern Bodybuilding Clothing: A Blend of Style and Performance
Today’s bodybuilding clothing is not just about showing off muscles; it’s also about making a fashion statement. There are now many brands that cater to the bodybuilders shape. No longer do lifters have to wear oversized clothing from everyday brands. Modern brands have introduced a variety of styles and designs, incorporating advanced fabrics that offer comfort, durability, and moisture wicking properties for the heaviest workouts. The emphasis is on creating clothing that is both aesthetically pleasing and practical for intense workouts.
Conclusion
The evolution of bodybuilding clothing reflects the ever evolving dynamics of the sport itself. From classic rag tops and stringer vests of the golden era to the sophisticated and stylish gear from brands like GASP, bodybuilding apparel has come a long way. We don’t ever want to lose the roots of the bodybuilding clothing styles made famous in documentaries such as Pumping Iron, but we welcome the evolution of these garments with the benefits of modern fabrics. Whether you’re a seasoned bodybuilder or a part time weight lifter, the right clothing can enhance your performance and make a statement about your dedication to the sport. Remember, in the world of bodybuilding, what you wear is as much a part of your identity as the muscles you build.
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