When to Replace Your Exercise Essentials

Bert Meadows

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By Christie Griffin

To get the best results from your workout -- and stay safe, too -- you can't keep ignoring the necessary upkeep and replacement of your most important items. "It's worth it, especially since most gear is fairly inexpensive and other gear may have useful upgrades," says Corey Twedt, NordicTrack Research and Development Manager. "You should always check your items for tears, cracks, or yellowing, and replace them so you can prevent injuries." Here's how to know when it's time to pony up the dough for a better performance.

Tanks, Pants, and Other Apparel

When to replace them: Varies

Must-know info: The lifespan of your apparel depends on each garment's type of material and the manufacturer's specific instructions (which can be found on the tag, the information/price tag, or inside a pocket). Fabric softener diminishes the breathability, water repellency, and wicking ability of performance fabrics -- so those items will lose their power within months if you don't care for them properly. You should line-dry these items as well, when possible.

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When to Replace Your Exercise Essentials

Tanks, Pants, and Other Apparel

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