From: alexhormozi
The choice of fitness equipment and gear reflects a preference for functionality and efficiency, often disregarding conventional aesthetics in favor of maximum utility. This philosophy extends to various aspects of fitness, from gym selection to clothing and accessories.
Gym Memberships and Training Environment
Having multiple gym memberships in the same city is considered beneficial for diversifying training environments [04:46:46]. This approach allows for a change of vibe and environment, similar to changing a workspace [04:52:00]. Specific gyms are chosen for different purposes:
- Gold South Central for quiet sessions and guest prep [04:58:39].
- An “indoor outdoor thing” for social sessions with friends [05:06:01].
- Another gym for functional classes [05:13:02].
Apparel: Vests/Tank Tops
The selection of a preferred vest or tank top involved trying 30-40 different brands [08:43:03]. Common problems encountered with other vests included:
- Inconsistent sizing (e.g., 10 mediums fitting differently) [08:51:24].
- Varying shrinking rates after washing [09:03:00].
- Being either too thin or too thick [09:08:08].
- Tendency to bunch up [09:13:05].
- Feeling like “paper” (lacking softness) [09:19:00].
- Lack of elasticity, which is desired to “show all the good, hides all the bad” [09:25:21].
A list of criteria was maintained on a phone to rate different options [09:33:04].
Footwear: Shoes
Shoes are considered the toughest item to test, with one individual having tried approximately 50 pairs [09:43:29]. Key criteria for an ideal shoe include:
- Ability to be worn in a “nice establishment” [09:51:22].
- Suitable for workouts [09:54:00], including calf raises [10:12:00].
- Resistant to getting wet [09:56:00] (for travel convenience).
- Prevents foot sweat and odor over time [10:00:00].
- Comfortable for walking an hour daily without blisters, especially when not wearing socks [10:16:00].
The “no socks” preference significantly raises the bar for shoe selection [10:04:00]. Vans Old Skool ComfyCush were considered, but they fail on smell and wetness [16:47:00]. A newer Vans model with a cork bottom and mesh top (“the move”) is currently being tested [16:57:00]. Slip-on/slip-off shoes are preferred, though shoe horns are used to expand choices [17:14:00].
Accessories: Gym Bag
A highly modified “workman’s bag” serves as the gym bag [29:10:00]. It is described as:
- Incredibly transactional [28:36:00].
- Does the job, even better than purpose-designed items [28:38:00].
- Zero aesthetics, very functional, and disregards convention [28:53:00].
- Lasts forever [29:15:00].
- Modified by cutting things off and moving stuff around to achieve optimal utility [29:17:00].
Personal Item: Chapstick
A chapstick is carried in a specific, purpose-built pocket on the side of the shorts for security during biceps training [31:32:00]. It is considered a “sunscreen” [31:37:00].
The “Red Sneaker Effect”
A study at a conference observed an inverse correlation between the “smartness of dress” and the net worth or job title of businessmen [10:47:00]. This concept, known as “counter-signaling,” suggests that the wealthiest individuals often dress down the most [10:57:00]. This aligns with the preference for highly functional, non-aesthetic gear.