Throughout the summer and warm weather seasons, my go-to attire for running has always been a tank top or t-shirt along with my tights or shorts. I often found myself admiring other girls confidently running in just a sports bra, showcasing their toned physiques. However, my own lack of confidence held me back as my internal voice convinced me that I wasn’t fit enough, muscular enough, or looked too pale to go shirtless. Looking back, I realize how mistaken I was. Not only was I not any of those things, even if I had’ve been, it really didn’t matter. What should’ve mattered was feeling comfortable and focusing on my workout, not what I looked like to others.

Today, in February, I embarked on a long run under the warm sunshine dressed in my pink Sweaty Betty tights, matching shoes, and a long-sleeved half-zip top. Despite initially considering thermals as it had seemed so cold as I stuck my arm out of the bedroom window, the route through Rock Creek Park proved to be sheltered from the wind, and the sun was surprisingly intense. About 4 miles into my run, the heat became unbearable, prompting me to make a spontaneous decision – off came the shirt, and I continued in just my sports bra. At possibly the heaviest I’ve been in a while (and no, it’s not all muscle) with pale winter skin, I realized that confidence was the key. I didn’t care if people looked (I’m sure they didn’t as they had their own workout to focus on); my priority was comfort. I’m sure my fat wobbled, my skin blinded people and my muffin top showed, but who cares? While my body may not have been perfect by societal standards, definitely not me!

This unexpected choice marked a personal triumph for me, especially as the DC summer can be unforgivingly hot. I’ve spent years running in the summer heat, being annoyed by my top which has stuck to me as I’ve sweat, and chafed under my arms. I can’t believe it took me so long to stop caring about what other people think, but I’m glad I finally got there! Moving forward, my plan is simple: to wear whatever makes me feel most comfortable during my outdoor runs. While personal comfort should be the priority for everyone, if you’re hesitant about running in just a sports bra but have been thinking about it, consider easing into it with a hybrid approach. Start out in your regular running clothes, and when you find a quiet spot, try going shirtless for a few minutes. You can always put it back on. While you consider this for your next run, let me share a few reasons why running in just your sports bra during the heat is entirely worth it!

Comfort and Freedom: On hot runs, shirts can be restrictive and uncomfortable. Wearing just a sports bra provides much-needed comfort. Just think about how many times you might’ve been chafed by a top, and how losing the shirt will prevent that.

Body Positivity: Running without a top challenges societal standards, celebrating the diversity of women’s bodies. It fosters self-acceptance and confidence in one’s own skin. I felt great when I got back from my run this weekend, and I think. quite a big piece of that was because my clothing decision felt empowering.

Inspiring Others: By confidently embracing this choice, we can work together to inspire other women to align their clothing choices with comfort and self-expression. I hadn’t really thought much about that until this weekend, but then I realised that in running in just my sports bra, and being averagely sized and in my 40s, I might help women who might otherwise be apprehensive, feel more confident to follow suit.

Focusing on Performance: Shedding uncomfortable clothing allows us to concentrate on our workout, the joy of movement, and the pursuit of our fitness goals.

Less Laundry: A small win! Less workout clothes = less laundry.

While I can’t promise that I’ll always run in just my sports bra on hot days – like everyone else, there are days when I don’t feel great or confident – last weekend was a promising start. This summer, my commitment is to wear what feels right and opt for workout clothes that make me feel most comfortable, leaning towards just my sports bra and leaving the shirt behind.

What do you wear when you run in the heat? Do you leave your shirt at home?