The Rail: Gym Like You Mean It

Inspired by the art of simplicity, this weeks issue of The Rail bares no resemblance to current fads or trends- nor does it neglect the meaning of classic elegance. Its aim is to diminish the boundaries of complexity, combining style with functionality- the ideal combination for hitting the gym hard at the beginning of this new year.

Inspiration

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Steve McQueen (top) looking steely with a Lateral Raise, while Rocky Balboa (left) jumps for joy atop the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and Muhammad Ali (right) heads out for a steady jog.

Modern Approach

It goes without saying that looking good in (and out of) the gym is the key reason any modern gentleman is willing to put himself through such physical torment. Sure there are other considerations; rehabilitation from injury, muscle improvement for a specific sport and general wellbeing. But we’d be lying if a washboard-like torso and larger pectorals isn’t the key driver. To this end, working out in the gym is often overlooked in the style stakes. Lycra, heavily-logo’d t-shirts and protein-company sponsored headwear are in. Out are simple, basic and crucially functional pieces- items all as handsome as your ruggedly, chiselled physique. Let this year be the return of working out in style.

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-Reigning Champ Slim-Fit Loopback Cotton-Jersey Sweatpants in black £125

-Reigning Champ Slim-Fit Loopback Cotton-Jersey Sweatshirt in black £120

-Uniqlo AIRism T-Shirt in white £9.90

-Falke RU5 Invisible Men Running No Show Socks in black £17

-adidas Ultraboost Shoes in black £149.95

This all-black ensemble will never fade from style- opt for loopback cotton-jersey in a comfortable and functional yet form-boasting slim fit. Team with a breathable crisp white t-shirt and understated sneakers. We advise ‘invisible’ socks but a well heeled pair of classic sports socks wouldn’t be remiss either. Note the absence of shouty logos, lycra and protein enriched headwear- a plain, dark knit beanie would be acceptable on cooler days, however.

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-Sunspel Cotton Loopback Zip Hoody in grey £145

-Sunspel Cotton Loopback Shorts in grey £85

-Sunspel Cotton Riviera T-Shirt in white £70

-Falke RU5 Invisible Men Running No Show Socks in white £17

-Converse Pique-Cotton Canvas Jack Purcell Sneakers in white £45

This all grey melange option never gets old- an athletic style classic. Partner a cotton loopback hoodie in grey with matching shorts and a well constructed white t-shirt. Invisible socks and a timeless pair of sneakers, and you’re ready to take on the dumbbells in style.

Accessories

With the sartorial-style stakes covered it’s important to not ruin your well crafted look with ugly accessories. Buy smart and not only will your workout benefit but you’ll further improve your gym floor credibility. A simplistic bag to carry your workout-wares, a time-honoured water bottle (which genuinely keeps your poison cool) and a smart watch to keep you in check.

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MUJI Paraglider Cloth Boston Bag in black £39.95 | SIGG Traveller Alu 0.6 L water bottle £15.99 | Fitbit Ionic Smart Fitness Watch £239.99

To Conclude

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Keep it simple. This, as ever, is the recipe for success. And by no means are we disregarding the apparel touted by iconic sports brands such as Nike, Adidas, Champion and Everlast, as there is, in some cases the requirement for the high-tech-textiles they provide. Either way, simple style wins. Train hard, gentleman.

Chris Beastall

Chris is the Founder and Editor of Ape to Gentleman. His interests lie in men's style, male grooming and leading a better lifestyle - through minimalist, basic and clean design.