So you splurged on a bunch of new workout gear, and you're beginning to think you might have gone a bit overboard. Don't fret! A new study just might convince you that your new wares really are worth it—from a psychological standpoint, at least.
Shape magazine reported on a new study in The Journal of Experimental Social Psychology that explains the impact certain clothes can have on you—a phenomenon called enclothed cognition. Per Shape, the study "suggests that clothing influences behavior and attitudes because it carries a symbolic meaning. So, what you wear is actually subconsciously changing how you act."
Shape also tapped Dr. Jonathan Fader, a sports psychologist, to offer his take on the idea. "When you put on new fitness gear, you begin to get into character like an actor putting on a costume for a performance," Fader told the magazine. "As a result, you expect to have a better performance, making you more mentally prepared for the task." In other words, you just got the validation you needed to splurge on those amazing leggings you've been eyeing for weeks.
Head over to Shape to learn more about the concept, and scroll down to shop our favorite investment leggings!
What do you think about this study? Tell us in the comments below!
Opening Image: Splash News
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