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The start of a new year often comes with pressures to “fix” ourselves through anti-fat resolutions, constant gym ads, and toxic messaging about shrinking our bodies using the latest fad diet or drug. I have spent so much of my life feeling like movement is a miserable chore full of unrealistic expectations. But what if movement wasn’t about punishment or weight loss? What if it was about joy, comfort, and celebrating our bodies as they are right now? Finding movement you enjoy can be life-changing, and one of the major keys to fully experiencing that joy? Feeling supported, comfortable, and confident in what you wear. That’s where finding quality plus size activewear that made for your body and needs comes in.
In this guide, we’ll explore what to look for in size-inclusive activewear, share options for low to high-impact activities, and highlight brands that are doing the work. Movement is for every body—and you deserve activewear that works with your body, not against it.
Fit That Moves With You
A great fit is about more than size—it’s about being able to move comfortably without constant adjustment. We are trying to avoid the sensory nightmare that is rolling, pinching, and digging.
What to Look For:
- High-waisted leggings: I like to look for wide, no-slip waistbands that are more likely to stay in place as you move.
- Seamless designs: Fewer seams = less potential for chafing, especially during long or repetitive movements.
- Adjustable features: Adjustable straps, drawstring waists, and removable pads allow for a more customized fit.
Supportive Fabrics and Stretch
The right fabrics can make or break your activewear experience. Supportive materials keep you comfortable and confident, while stretch helps activewear adapt to your unique shape and movement.
What to Look For:
- Moisture-wicking fabrics: Pieces made from moisture-wicking materials like polyester blends helps keep you cool and dry during your movement of choice.
- 4-way stretch: Fabrics with stretch in all directions allows for flexibility without losing shape.
- Breathability: Keep an eye out for mesh panels or lightweight fabrics that keep you from getting overheated.
- Wide straps and bands: When we’re talking sports bras, wider straps are going to distribute support more evenly and prevent discomfort.
Size-Inclusive Activewear for Different Levels of Movement
Not sure what styles are best for your level of movement? Below, we have broken down the best options for low, medium, and high-impact activities!
Low-Impact Activities (Yoga, Walking, Stretching): Soft leggings, oversized tees, light support sports bras, and flowy talk tops.
Medium-Impact Activities (Dance, Hiking, Aerobics): Compression leggings, breathable tops, medium-impact bras, and sweat-wicking fabrics.
High-Impact Activities (Running, HIIT, Group Fitness Classes): High-impact sports bras, supportive leggings, and fitted tops that won’t ride up.
Top Brands Offering Size-Inclusive Activewear
We have rounded up some amazing size-inclusive activewear options from 8 size-inclusive retailers!
Universal Standard
Size Range: 40 – 00 | Price Range: $$$ – $$$$
Universal Standard is a staple brand for high-quality, thoughtfully made activewear. I love every piece I own from their Next-to-Naked line. While the price point is higher, these are investment pieces that last—and trust me, they’re worth it.
Fabletics
Size Range: 4X – XXS | Price Range: $$ – $$$
Fabletics is unique because it offers a membership model to their shoppers. While you don’t have to opt in to the membership to be a customer, there are certainly cost-saving benefits and perks—you can read more about that here. They have tons of options in fun prints and vibrant colors for those wanting a more bold activewear look.
Reprise Activewear
Size Range: 6X – XS | Price Range: $$$ – $$$$
If you’re someone who wants to prioritize sustainability without compromising on fit, Reprise Activewear is an incredible choice. This eco-conscious brand focuses on plant-based, super soft fabrics that are gentle on your skin and the planet. Their pieces are on the pricier side, but the ethically made, durable, and size inclusive designs are well worth it.
Old Navy
Size Range: 4X – XXS | Price Range: $ – $$
Old Navy proves that activewear doesn’t have to break the bank to be cute, comfy, and functional. While I would LOVE it if they brought back carrying their full size range in-store, I can’t deny that they offer great plus size options with affordable price tags online. And with how many sales they have, it’s easy to stock up without going into deep debt.
Lane Bryant
Size Range: 40 – 10 | Price Range: $$ – $$$
Lane Bryant’s activewear line, LIVI, combines style, comfort, and support to create pieces perfect for everything from lounging around to high-impact movement. I truly hate bras, but y’all, their sports bras are incredible. Highly recommend.
Superfit Hero
Size Range: 7X – L | Price Range: $$ – $$$
Superfit Hero is one of my favorite brands for inclusive, body-positive activewear that actually delivers. With an impressive size range and thoughtful fit, their pieces are supportive, durable, and designed for bodies of all shapes and abilities.
Target
Size Range: 4X – XS | Price Range: $ – $$
Target has really stepped up their size-inclusive activewear options from their in-house brand All in Motion. Much like Old Navy, Target has unfortunately doesn’t always carry their larger sizes in-store, but there are tons of really cute options available online—often with online-exclusive deals.
Torrid
Size Range: 30 – 10 | Price Range: $$ – $$$
Torrid’s activewear options include supportive leggings, comfy sports bras, and cute, stylish sets. Their pieces move with you and help you feel your best no matter what your level of movement is.
Final Thoughts
- Movement is for everyone—every body, every level, and every journey. It’s not about meeting a certain standard or chasing a specific goal; it’s about connecting with your body, celebrating what it can do, and finding joy in the ways you move.
- There is not just one way to move your body. Dance in your living room, grab a yoga mat, lift weights, walk your favorite trail— no matter what, movement should feel good, empowering, affirming, and be done at your own pace.
- When you wear activewear designed with inclusivity in mind, you’re reminded that your body is worthy of support and celebration exactly as it is.
For even more outfit inspiration, exclusive finds, and my personal style tips, follow me on LTK, on Instagram, and over on Youtube to stay updated with the latest in plus-size fashion!
