What to Wear to the Gym If You’re an Hourglass Shape (Because Most Activewear Doesn’t Get Your Curves)

Photo Credit: ajaila-walker

Hourglass figures get praised in theory—but when it comes to activewear? It’s a whole different story. Tops are too tight in the bust, leggings can’t decide whether to fit your hips or your waist, and the constant adjusting is enough to make you skip the workout altogether.

Let’s change that. But first, let’s make sure we’re clear on what having an hourglass shape actually means.

What Is an Hourglass Body Shape?

If your bust and hips are about the same width, and you’ve got a clearly defined waist, you’re likely rocking an hourglass figure. Your curves are evenly distributed—but that doesn’t mean activewear always plays nice.

You might be an hourglass shape if:

Your waist is smaller than both your bust and hips

You have full hips and a full bust

You often have to size up in tops or deal with gaping waistbands

Clothes that aren’t stretchy feel like a gamble

Still unsure? Use this guide to find your body shape.

And if hourglass is definitely you, save this post on how to dress an hourglass figure for more outfit strategies.

Now let’s get into the good stuff: the best activewear for hourglass shapes—made to move with your curves, not fight against them.

1. When Leggings Fit Your Hips But Not Your Waist

Your hips fill them out, but the waistband gaps or slides down.

Try: Leggings with a V-shaped waistband that hugs your waist without flattening your hips. Bonus if they’re made with 4-way stretch.

V Back Waist Seamless

$28.99

2. When You Want a Top That Doesn’t Squeeze Your Chest

You didn’t ask for a push-up effect—you just want to breathe.

Try: A scoop or square-neck top with built-in shelf support, made from soft-stretch fabric that accommodates a fuller bust.

Sports Crop Tank Top

$19.97

3. When You Want to Highlight Your Waist Without Overexposing

You’ve got a waist—now you want clothes that show it off, not show everything.

Try: A cropped hoodie or wrap top that hits right at your natural waist and flatters without clinging.

Pilates Wrap Top

$19.99

4. When Compression Leggings Are Just Too Much

Not all curves need to be “smoothed.” Some just need to breathe.

Try: Medium-hold leggings with soft contouring seams—not ultra-tight compression that makes you feel squished.

Womens Scrunch Workout Leggings

$26.99

5. When You Want a Sports Bra That Supports, Not Smothers

You need real support—but you also want to feel comfortable.

Try: A wide-band sports bra with molded cups and adjustable straps. Supportive without flattening.

Seamless Square Neck Sports Bra

$19.98

6. When You’re Tired of Constantly Pulling Things Down

Whether it’s your top or your leggings, something’s always riding up or sliding down.

Try: A full-length fitted tank with thick straps and a longer hem—built to stay put without shifting.

Women's Square Neck Tank Top

$22.99

7. When You Want to Wear a Matching Set But Don’t Want to Feel Exposed

Sets are cute—but not if they’re pulling in all the wrong places.

Try: A high-rise bottom with a longer sports bra or crop top to balance everything out.

2 Piece Seamless Ribbed Workout Set

$45.95

8. When You’re Walking or Running and Don’t Want a Show

Let’s just say: high-impact movement + curves = tricky.

Try: Leggings with flat seams and a stay-put waistband so nothing rides up (or down) during cardio.

Compression Leggings With Pockets

$23.99

9. When You Want to Feel Styled, Not Just Functional

Some days, you want a workout look that feels like an outfit.

Try: A ruched front tank or side-tie tee that adds detail without bulk. Cute, comfy, done.

Short Sleeve Crop Tank Top

$25.99

10. When You’re Just Doing Light Movement or Pilates 

It’s not a full workout day—you just want to feel good and supported.

Try: A longline bralette with stretch and lift, paired with buttery-soft leggings that hug every curve.

Bralette Longline Padded Lounge Bra Pack of 4

$29.99

Want outfit combos that work for your curves?

Grab the Hourglass Body Shape Style Guide for mix-and-match looks, layering ideas, and more pieces that actually work.

Still figuring out your shape?

Start with the Find Your Body Shape Guide to finally feel seen when you shop.