What to Wear to Bootcamp: A Coach's Simple Guide
You have finally booked your first class. Then the panic starts. Do I need proper gym kit, when the last thing I bought for myself was before the kids arrived? Will everyone be in matching sets? Are my old trainers from 2015 going to fall apart? I get asked what to wear to bootcamp more than almost anything else by nervous first-timers, so here is my plain answer as a coach: wear something comfortable that lets you move, plus decent trainers. Everything else is detail.
That said, a few small choices can make your first session a lot more comfortable. Here is what I tell the mums and dads who come to my classes in Archway.
What to wear to bootcamp: the short list
- A t-shirt or vest you do not mind sweating in.
- Leggings, joggers or shorts that let you squat and lunge without tugging.
- Supportive trainers with a flat-ish, grippy sole.
- Sports socks that stay up.
- A light layer such as a hoodie for the warm-up and the walk home.
- A sports bra with good support if you wear one, because there may be some light jogging or jumping, even with low-impact options.
That is genuinely it. No one in my classes cares about brands.
Tops: comfort over fashion
Choose something that does not ride up when you reach overhead or lie on the floor for core work. A slightly fitted top is less annoying than a baggy one when you are doing planks, because it will not slide over your face. Technical fabrics wick sweat better than thick cotton, but a cotton tee is absolutely fine for your first class. If you are self-conscious, a looser top is completely normal. Wear what makes you feel able to move.
Bottoms: the squat test
Before you leave the house, do one deep squat and one big lunge in front of the mirror. If your bottoms pull, slide down or go see-through, swap them. Leggings and joggers both work well. If you wear shorts, a pair with a liner is more comfortable for floor exercises. Avoid jeans, anything with a stiff waistband, and long, loose trousers you could trip over.
Shoes: the one thing worth getting right
Your trainers matter more than anything else on this list. Bootcamp classes mix squats, lunges, step-ups, short bursts of movement and sometimes light jumping. You want:
- A stable sole that does not wobble side to side.
- Good grip for an indoor hall floor.
- Some cushioning, but not a super-soft, high-heeled running shoe if you can help it, as these feel unstable during lunges and side steps.
- A snug fit with laces done up properly.
A general cross-training or gym shoe is ideal. Running shoes are fine if they are what you have. Avoid fashion trainers with flat, slippery soles, skate shoes and anything worn down on one side. If your shoes are very old and your feet or knees ache after walking, it may be time for a new pair.
What not to wear
- Jewellery such as large rings, bracelets and dangly earrings. They get in the way and can catch on equipment.
- Heavy perfume or aftershave, as you will be working close to others.
- Brand new trainers on day one if you can avoid it. Wear them around the house first.
- Thick jumpers as your only layer. You will be too hot five minutes in.
Extra tips for specific classes
Boxing classes
If you are coming to SYP Box Fit, my beginner boxing class with no sparring, wear a top that lets your arms move freely and remove rings and watches. If you own gloves or hand wraps, bring them. If you do not, ask me when you book and I will tell you what to do.
Mobility classes
For mobility work, like my hip and back class, wear something stretchy you can lie on the floor in comfortably. Layers are useful because you warm up more slowly than in a fast-paced class.
Stress relief with pads and slam balls
Comfortable clothes and trainers with good grip. You will be moving fast and hitting things, so keep jewellery off.
Dressing for an indoor class versus outdoors
Outdoor bootcamps in a London winter need hats, gloves and waterproof layers, which can make movement awkward. My classes run indoors in a church hall in Archway N19, so you can dress as you would for a gym. Bring a warm layer for the journey, especially on dark winter evenings, and take it off once the warm-up gets going.
Packing your bag
What you wear is half the story. The other half is what you bring, such as water, a towel and any snacks. I have covered that in a separate guide on what to bring to a bootcamp class. And if you are nervous about the session itself, read your first bootcamp class as a beginner for what actually happens, minute by minute. There is also a short guide to fitness class etiquette if you want to know the unwritten rules.
FAQs
Can you wear leggings to bootcamp?
Yes. Leggings are one of the best options, as they move with you during squats and floor work. Just check they are not see-through when you bend over.
What shoes are best for a bootcamp class?
Cross-training or general gym trainers with a stable sole and good grip. Running shoes are fine if that is what you have. Avoid flat fashion trainers with slippery soles.
Should I wear gloves to a bootcamp class?
Not for most classes. Boxing sessions are the exception, where boxing gloves or wraps help protect your hands. Ask your coach what is provided.
Can I wear shorts to bootcamp?
Yes, as long as they are comfortable for squats, lunges and lying on the floor. A built-in liner makes floor exercises more comfortable.
Book your first class
Now you know what to wear, the next step is the easy one. SYP Bootcamp runs 45-minute small-group classes indoors in Archway N19, max 10 people, £15 a class, for all fitness levels. You get the timetable when you book. Book my £15 class, or call or WhatsApp me on 07301 512215 if you are unsure about anything. If you would like to know how 1-1 coaching works down the line, see how SYP Fitness works.
About the author
Artem Olekhnovych is a personal trainer in Archway and the founder of SYP Fitness and SYP Bootcamp. He has coached clients in Archway, Highgate and across North London for over 10 years, and runs small-group bootcamp classes for busy mums and dads. Read reviews from his 1-1 clients.
