The Relationship Between Clothing Fit and Perceived Fitness Level

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1 The Relationship Between Clothing Fit and Perceived Fitness Level Student Name Tutors Name Institutional Affiliations Course Date

2 The Relationship Between Clothing Fit and Perceived Fitness Level Table of Contents 1.0 Introduction .............................................................................................................. 3 2.0 An overview of Clothing Fit and Perceived Fitness Level of the Sport Industry .... 3 2.1 An athlete's physical activity, physique alteration, and garment fit ..................... 6 2.2 Clothing fit and body images and shaming factors .............................................. 8 2.3 Clothing fitting and sizing issues ....................................................................... 11 3.0 Industry statistics .................................................................................................... 14 4.0 Key Benefits for Sports Apparel Market ................................................................ 20 5.0 Important driving factors for Athletics Clothing Fit industry ................................ 20 6.0 Factors that restrict options athletics clothing fit growth industry ......................... 21 7.0 Fit specialist job descriptions of sport human resource professionals ................... 21 7.1 Job description ................................................................................................... 21 7.2 Fit specialist job requirements ........................................................................... 22 7.3 Fit specialist job qualifiers ................................................................................. 22 8.0 Clothing fit industry is attracting many Fit specialist career path ......................... 23 9.0 Conclusion .............................................................................................................. 25 References .................................................................................................................... 27

3 1.0 Introduction The clothing fit and perceived fitness level of the sports industry are mainly centered on being slim and in most athletic events like running. Most professionals prefer sports body types to slim-ideal body shapes, maybe due to cultural similarities and the concern today to be skinny. Physical activity duration and overall well-being may be affected by how much one compare their own fitness levels to that of a fit and healthy peer. Wilfling et al. (2021) explain that a woman exercising near a physically fit woman wearing swim trunks and a tight tank top resulted in women feeling less content with their bodies, but exercise near an unfit woman wearing baggy trousers and a baggy sweatshirt resulted in a woman feeling less satisfied with her body. It is likely that unhealthy behaviors or the avoidance of certain activities would be encouraged as a result of social comparisons with peers. For a variety of reasons, persons who are subjected to negative stereotypes about their weight may be less motivated to participate in physical activity or may choose to abstain from it completely. This article will evaluate the relationship between clothing fit and perceived fitness level 2.0 An overview of Clothing Fit and Perceived Fitness Level of the Sport Industry Persons who regard their bodies from an external viewpoint, rather than from a self- objectified one, may devote a significant amount of time, energy, and money to their appearances. Individuals who suffer from self-objectification, according to objectification theory, absorb the opinions of others about their physical appearance and their bodies; for example, they become preoccupied with how their bodies appear to others rather than with how their bodies actually feel. Results of interviews with professional athletes suggest that they perceive their own bodies as "an object to be managed" rather than as "a living organism." Low self-esteem may be induced by self-objectifying thoughts and anxieties about one's looks, which can be amplified in specific circumstances for those who suffer from it.

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4 The study by Wilfling et al. (2021) involved instructing participants to try on either a swimsuit or a sweater before taking a mathematics test. It seems that women in swimsuits did much lower than women in sweaters on the test, and the results were statistically significant. Because their mental energy was redirected to caring about their physical appearance, Patrick & Xu (2018) expected that they would do worse in mathematics as a result of their body shame. It was observed in a study done by the research team at the University of California, Los Angeles, with 202 teenage females that those who scored higher on measures of self- objectification did worse when they were asked to toss a softball as hard as they could ( Patrick & Xu , 2018) . Consequently, it is plausible that feeling body shame may impede one's capacity to participate in physical activities or other tasks that need mental resources as a consequence of these results. When it comes to how women control their physical appearance and achieve success, dressing for success seems to be significant, though sometimes neglected, the component of the process. Swimming suits or other body-contouring uniforms are essential for various sports in order to perform at their highest level. However, there are often variances between men and women in terms of clothing needs, with women usually wearing substantially fewer clothes than males ( Hauff, 2016). Hauff (2016) explains that sports uniforms that display an excessive amount of the athlete's body may be seen as stresses, placing more strain on the athlete's functioning or capacity to perform better in competition. People have expressed discomfort when compelled to wear exposing attire, and others have said that they would not participate in a certain sport due to the mandatory uniforms. Sports ware, especially those worn by female athletes, has been demonstrated to encourage unhealthy eating patterns and eating disorders in those who wear them ( Hauff, 2016). Hauff (2016) explains that among female athletes, unhealthy body comparisons, heightened body image worries, and body dissatisfaction are widespread. However, athletes

5 who are satisfied with the fit of their uniforms are more likely to have positive attitudes about their own bodies. Women who express a strong association with exercise, as well as a high value put on having an athletic body, may be more prone to being coerced into taking part in the mandated exercise. Sporting performance is dependent on a multitude of elements, including the athletes' mental state, which may be affected by their athletic gear or uniform, among other things. As stated in the name of the hypothesis, the color and fit of an athlete's uniform have an effect on their psychological functioning. Research by Jiang (2018) revealed that wearing red apparel made the participants see their opponents as more dominating and menacing, which was confirmed by the findings. Research done on male fighters who took part in a simulated combat scenario discovered that the heart rates of those who wore red jerseys were considerably higher than those who wore blue jerseys before, during, and after the battle than those who wore blue jerseys. Furthermore, according to the findings of a Jiang (2018), sports apparel that was well-fitting on the body boosted athletes' impressions of their own bodies. According to Plante et al. (2018), individual clothing choices have an influence on our perceptions and actions, which may have a range of ramifications for our overall well-being, as shown in the table below. Plante et al. (2018) explain that this phenomenon has not yet been examined in any research, including endurance athletes, at this time. Therefore, the present research intended to establish the impact of clothing fit in the lives of a group of runners who took part in the study. As a result, Plante et al. (2018) anticipated that people would perceive male and female athletes who wore tight-fitting clothes as being more physically fit than athletes who wore loose-fitting clothing.

6 2.1 An athlete's physical activity, physique alteration, and garment fit Globally, according to Schmidt et al. (2016), a lack of physical exercise is responsible for a broad variety of ailments and accounts for around six percent of all fatalities globally. Taking part in sports or organized exercise may not necessarily qualify as physical activity, according to Schmidt et al. (2016). Participants in organized school exercise had a fourfold increase in their chance of engaging in adult sports if they do so on a regular basis, compared to those who do not participate ( Schmidt et al., 2016). Physical activity is vital for long-term health since it has been found to reduce the risk of depression, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer. As adults, male high school students who did not take part in athletics were much more prone towards becoming sedentary, while female high school students who did play sports became less likely to become overweight. According to Tokizawa et al. (2018), Sports benefits for youths were shown to be beneficial, as seen by lower pregnancy rates, greater academic performance, and increased self-esteem. Adult women who engaged in sports had a positive influence on their educational and employment levels for a long time after they stopped participating. Adolescence is a period of development during which the positive effects of physical exercise are most visible. According to Tokizawa et al. (2018), there has been a significant link established between students who participate in athletics and those who have outstanding academic results. Michelle Obama, the First Lady of the United States, has also gotten involved, pushing a national campaign to improve the health of children ( Lee et al., 2020). Students' academic performance improves when they engage in sports, despite the fact that cause and effect cannot be demonstrated, and other variables like parental support must also be taken into account. The quest for muscularity for men, for example, may have a physical and psychological toll if they think they are not matching the standards established by their peers and society, which can be physically and emotionally draining ( Lee et al., 2020).

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7 Lee et al. (2020) claim that athletes who engage in high-impact sports have greater bone mineral density and appendicular muscle mass than non-athletes. Over the course of a ten-week training program, women's strength and muscular mass rose. A study by Webb et al. (2017) showed that improvements in strength outweigh increases in muscle mass, which are often only visible after twelve weeks of training. However, it has been proven that placing the muscles under high pressure destroys the muscle fibers and induces cell divisions in the muscle to repair the damage. The specific method by which these changes occur and muscle size exceeds that threshold has not been discovered in Webb et al.'s (2017) study. This cell division results in the growth of muscle mass in the afflicted muscle. Long-distance runners had smaller skinfold measures, greater lean muscle mass, and lower body fat measurements compared to the general population. Increased muscle fibers resulted from weight training. Athletes' physical appearance is affected by involvement in sports ( Webb et al., 2017). Psychology modifications are typically beneficial to one's capacity to attain and maintain a happy mindset, but there may be some negative effects in terms of finding clothes that are comfortable to wear. Because of their athletic frame, athletes are famously difficult to clothe appropriately. Because of his ten times larger frame than the ordinary person, xl saw the asymmetry and out-of-proportion appearance of muscle builders. Ninety-five percent of the apparel offered in shops, according to Doherty et al. (2021), is unsuitable for the body of extreme sportsmen. The only ready-to-wear options for these players are athletic-inspired outfits designed primarily for training. Athletes often experience physical changes as a consequence of their training and performance schedules, notwithstanding the severe disproportion observed in bodybuilders. Gymnast-like thighs, swimmer-like shoulders, and the wider necks, shoulders, and legs of a football player characterize this. Athletes who want to shape their bodies via training may face challenges due to the fit issues with ready-to-wear apparel that they had not

8 planned or anticipated ( Doherty et al., 2021). Online firms like Casualmale.com and BestCustomShirt have taken notice of the problem and are working on a solution for adult sports. 2.2 Clothing fit and body images and shaming factors Body image and body happiness are tough topics to explore since they affect so many different facets of human existence. Phillips et al. (2018) developed an interest in body image and pleasure while writing his doctoral dissertation, and this study has helped shape his professional career. The way a person views their physique and their overall self-confidence might range greatly from person to person. Other parts of their lives are impacted by this feeling of safety. This study by Phillips et al. (2018) found a link between sadness and poor body image across a range of body indices. Girls are more unsatisfied with their bodies than men, according to a gap in their actual and goal body mass indexes ( Phillips et al., 2018). "Unhealthy days" are more common among those who are more dissatisfied with their physical appearance, according to Zhou et al. (2018). Zhou et al.'s (2018) findings suggest that having a poor self-perception of one's body may raise one's risk of becoming obese, which may lead to a host of health issues. Zhou et al. (2018) further explain that the media, dolls played with by young children, computer games, and models in the fashion business, among other things, impact how we see our bodies in the United States. According to Zhou et al. (2018), both body comfort and dissatisfaction are affected. For this study, it was shown that people need to build realistic body standards in order to reduce the harmful effects of body dissatisfaction. Unnaturally skinny models have been criticized in the fashion business, generating an uproar. British Fashion Council claimed responsibility for promoting a good body image and encouraged designers to use healthy models over the age of sixteen, although not setting any precise

9 criteria ( El Masri et al., 2021). The use of anorexic models in high fashion has been prohibited due to an increase in the frequency of eating disorders. More than 10 million girls and 1 million men throughout the globe are affected by anorexia and bulimia, which may lead to death in certain cases ( El Masri et al., 2021). Eating disorders are common on college campuses, and the practice of dieting in an effort to achieve unrealistic body standards has been well documented in the literature. Eating disorders were identified as the most serious mental illness according to the results of this poll, which also revealed that professional athletes were at a much higher risk of developing disordered eating practices than the general public. A study by Auster-Gussman et al. (2021) found that the difference between a person's actual weight and the desired body weight, rather than their body mass index, is a more reliable predictor of a person's health. Women who were self-conscious about their bodies used garments to conceal their appearance, despised bright colors and certain forms, and were unwilling to spend money on themselves ( Auster- Gussman et al., 2021). They also found that these women were more prone to participate in anorexia and bulimia than the overall population. For female sports players, the desire to lose weight and gain muscle mass is frequent; for male athletes, this desire presents itself as a desire to gain weight as well as gain muscle mass. In general, women are more dissatisfied with their bodies than men, and those with higher BMIs are more dissatisfied. Screening for obesity-related diseases in children is done using the BMI. Parents, peers, and the media all put pressure on their children to maintain a typical body image ( Bozsik et al., 2018). Bozsik et al. (2018) explain that many children and teenagers, ranging in age from six to nineteen, are concerned with their appearance and weight control. Bozsik et al.'s (2018) findings revealed that feeling overweight had a greater impact on children in the medium to upper socioeconomic classes than it did on children in the lower socioeconomic classes, according to the researchers. Bodyweight is a source of

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10 worry that has a negative impact on one's self-esteem. Only by the time they were ten did the children's opinions of body pleasure begin to shift significantly ( Bozsik et al., 2018). In the clothing fit sector, athletes' body image and self-esteem are also key considerations. It was shown that athletes with higher degrees of bodily awareness were more likely to take drugs, regardless of the fact that the link among kinesthetic awareness and substance misuse varied by gender in their research, the researchers advocated drug 13 programs aimed at children who are dissatisfied with their bodies in an attempt to reduce substance abuse issue in teenagers ( Jia ett a., 2018). Teenagers are particularly susceptible to depression. Depression affects around 20% of teens before they reach adulthood ( Jia et al., 2018). They discovered that people with eating disorders and body-image concerns had higher rates of depression than those without such issues following puberty. Athletes often express discontent with their physical appearance, and this is well accepted. As a result of these developments, there was less significance placed on their athletic skill, attractiveness, or how others saw them. In order to enhance one's body image, the training emphasizes one's sense of self-worth. Being physically active seems to have a positive influence on the self-esteem and body image of women who are slender. Despite the fact that they acknowledged that socioeconomic activities and social acceptability had some impact, Casaló et al.'s (2020) result suggested that engagement in sports was related to a more positive female identity. Various factors motivate athletes to participate in sports and physical activities, including health and enjoyment, as well as the desire to improve their talents, despite the fact that sports participation has been shown to benefit the majority of athletes in terms of their body image and body contentment. During the years of rapid growth, athletes' body satisfaction was examined, and it was shown that teens of all ages are concerned about their physical appearance, body size, and weight ( Casaló et al., 2020). No correlation between age and self-

11 esteem was Casaló et al. (2020), supporting the theory that all adolescents worry about their obesity throughout the growing process, irrespective of age. As part of Casaló et al. (2020), they looked into the relationship between clothes and the human body and found evidence to support previous studies showing that women are generally unsatisfied with their lower back and thighs. Casaló et al. (2020) observed a substantial connection between women's body image, physical size, and the apparel that they find aesthetically attractive in their investigations. Sveinson et al. (2020) explain that our culture is facing a surge in body dissatisfaction, and we encouraged textile and garment professionals to do something about it. There should be courses for undergraduates that deal with concerns of body image and physical attractiveness; they said Students would learn about the different factors encountered in daily life that might contribute to inaccurate views of one's own body in their suggested courses. According to Sveinson et al. (2020), implementing the course content may help students comprehend why and how we form body image preferences and how we learn to appreciate beauty. According to Sveinson et al. (2020), it would show how the beauty, health, and weight-loss industries exploit consumer fears in order to optimize their company earnings, among many other things. 2.3 Clothing fitting and sizing issues Vanities zing, the technique of changing the size on a garment's label to represent a smaller size than the garment really measures, is frequent, according to Prichard et al.'s (2019) study. A growing concern in the clothing sector is being highlighted in these publications, and that problem is that clothes accessible in ready-to-wear retailers are not always fitting properly. In response to It's becoming more difficult for consumers to establish their correct size due to the fact that women are becoming larger, yet clothing sizes are decreasing, making it more difficult for them to get what they're looking for. In order to

12 entice consumers, more costly companies are increasing the normal sizes by several inches. Customers were aware, according to Prichard et al.'s (2019) study, that certain clothes firms use vanity sizing practices. Prichard et al.'s (2019) study also discovered that, despite the fact that these consumers said that garment sizing was variable, they were generally happy with the sizes and fit of the clothes. The Dutch trade organization for style, interior decoration, carpeting, and fabrics conducted a conference where Adidas and other firms discussed their ideas on how companies are coming to learn that when they address fit difficulties for their clothing lines, consumers become happy and more willing to buy their products at full price ( Myre et al., 2021). They are employing 3D body scanning technology to determine their target customers and to consistently make clothing that fits their intended consumer base. In a survey conducted by Lipson et al. (2020), it was found that 52% of women and 62% of men had trouble finding clothing that fit their body types. Fitting sessions are an important part of the production process. After 2 or 3 fitting sessions, 94 percent of clothing is shipped to the manufacturer ( Lipson et al., 2020). The first step in the process of performing a fitting session is to pick a fit model that resembles the intended client's size and shape. Sagging jeans, drooping shoulders, shirts that are too tight in the middle, and pants that bunch up in the crotch are all examples of fit issues. With the popularity of tight-fitting clothing, these issues became more evident. There is a need for fresh national surveys using body scanners to help with the problem of fitting apparel from the 1950s through the 1970s since different consumers have various body dimensions ( Lipson et al., 2020). Kabel et al. (2017) explain that some women keep garments that do not fit because they are emotional; they feel the clothing will fit them again; they spend so much money just on clothing, or they just appreciate the garment in its present state. Discarding clothing that no longer fits may seem to be a rational and straightforward option, but the women in this

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13 research revealed that they had additional thoughts and sentiments that clouded what appeared to be a straightforward decision. Keeping clothing that does not fit properly became a choice that has consequences for these women on several levels: economically, emotionally, psychologically, and maybe physically ( Kabel et al., 2017). In addition, Kabel et al. (2017) discovered that this age group had not been extensively examined before and that the right fit of their clothes was critical given the fact that they utilized their clothing to make themselves feel better about themselves. Kabel et al. (2017) determined that more research with this customer age group was required in order to assess whether or not improvements were required. In addition to their physical appearance and clothing, athletes' teenagers are worried about the emotional impacts of their clothing, which is in addition to the usefulness of their garments. Additionally, consumers' opinions of fit had an impact on their overall level of happiness. Although accurate measurements were taken, the manufacturing process had to take into consideration the intricacies of fit that varied from client to customer. Fashion firms must deal with a variety of difficulties, including those relating to the fit and size of clothing. One fit model was found to be responsible for determining the vast majority of sizes. Additionally, this was frequently done in a 2-dimension fashion ( Murray- Davis et al., 2019). Murray-Davis et al. (2019) discussed how 3D pictures may be used to improve the fitting of clothing for the fashion industry by comparing data from a single model to data from thousands of other people segregated by age and gender categories. Physical exercise, according to the most recent studies, is essential for individuals to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Findings by Murray-Davis et al. (2019) showed that participation in high school athletics is advantageous in a variety of ways, including improving positive body image and academic success, as well as boosting the probability that teenagers will continue physically active into their adult life. Because of their intense sports activity, athletes have a more difficult time obtaining gear that fits them appropriately. According to Murray-Davis et

14 al. (2019), teenagers place a high value on their body image, body satisfaction, and physical form. Although there has been some research on garment fit difficulties identified by high school students, more work needs to be done. Technological advancements in 3D body scanning have been developed, and these advancements have the potential to be important in fixing fit issues that are prevalent in the garment business. Using the results Murray-Davis et al. (2019), a development was created that used 3D body scanning technology in combination with a survey to achieve the aims of the study. 3.0 Industry statistics According to Myre et al. (2021), the global sports apparel market was worth $167 billion in 2018 and will grow to $248 billion by 2026, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 5 percent from 2019 ( Ekblom-Bak et al., 2020). Moreover, half of the worldwide sports apparel market's 2018 revenue came from men's end users, and that proportion is expected to expand at a compound yearly growth rate of 4.6% during the forecast period ( Ekblom-Bak et al., 2020). Clothing used for strenuous physical activity, such as working out at the gym or engaging in sports, is referred to as sports gear. According to Ekblom-Bak et al. (2020), clothing fit is designed to make it easy to move about in them while maintaining a high level of comfort and agility. Breathable fabrics used in sports apparel allow sweat to evaporate more rapidly, keeping the wearer more comfortable for longer. It is common to use polyester and microfiber as well as calico and spandex in the production of this kind of clothing. Although it began with athletes in mind, sportswear has now become increasingly popular with non-athletes as well. The usage of sporting equipment has increased significantly in established countries like the United States, Canada, and Germany, but emerging markets like China, Brazil, and India are quickly catching up ( Pa et al., 2021).

15 Athletes and fitness enthusiasts use compression garments to boost blood and lymphatic flow in order to improve performance and reduce injury recovery and body shaping time. With their elastic fibers, they provide a tremendous amount of pressure to the areas they cover while simultaneously supporting and compressing their underlying tissue. Sculpting the physique, athletics, and medicine are just a few of the many uses for this technology ( Dadrasmoghadam et al., 2021). Sporting goods of this kind provide several advantages for athletes, such as lowering muscular exhaustion and pain, increasing perceived effort, enhancing strength recovery, increasing power and leaping ability, increasing muscle oxygenation, and providing groin support for the wearer Spondylitis and other joint and groin dysfunctions may also be helped by the use of this kind of clothes in the healthcare industry. Textile advances like smart nanotechnology-based textiles and heat-resistant compression gear for fitness and sports activities are revolutionizing the industry, according to Arıkan et al. (2021). As a result of their utilization, these materials are helping to shape the market. The unexpected growth of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the suspension of a wide range of activities, including physical and athletic activities. After experiencing a lull in activity during the financial crisis of 2007–08, the sports goods industry had a resurgence in activity in the year 2023 ( Arıkan et al., 2021). The majority of merchants, brands, and manufacturers reported a significant loss in sales and profits, despite a resurgence in activity after the first wave of COVID-19-related lockdowns that occurred in the aftermath of the first round of lockdowns. The Chinese market, on the other hand, has continued to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.5 percent from 2015 to 2019 ( Arıkan et al., 2021). When a pandemic occurred, athletic goods firms saw their stock prices fall significantly. Manufacturers of athletic gear and equipment, such as bicycles and digitally- enabled gym equipment such as gyms and yoga studios, have demonstrated better resilience than the rest of the apparel business.

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16 In 2020, the coronavirus had a substantial influence on the global sportswear sector, with most companies reporting lower sales and disruptions in transport and logistics ( Ahonen , 2022). Ahonen (2022) explains that individual sports and home workouts have seen an increase in participation, whilst team sports and outdoor sports have seen a decrease in participation as a result of the delay or cancellation of almost all athletic events in the last several weeks. Women's clothes, on the other hand, were the focus of developing possibilities, despite increasing emphasis being paid to jogging, yoga, home workouts, pilates, and other forms of exercise ( Ahonen , 2022) . The pandemic, on the other hand, has resulted in a number of positive developments, such as increased demand for environmentally friendly products, increased online commerce, and increased interest in personal fitness and sports. Alam & Abdurraheem (2021) explain that while the pandemic's impact is expected to be limited in the short term, the fact that it has magnified changes that are anticipated to have long-term ramifications for firms and organizations across the global sports goods sector value chain is promising. As a result, the sector must adapt both its customer offering and its operational capacity in order to cope with the difficulties that have arisen as a result of COVID-19. According to Alam & Abdurraheem (2021) , in the next years, it will be crucial to keep an eye on the development of compression sportswear technology. The efficacy of technology breakthroughs and innovations is at its highest point in the present market climate. An increase in the quality of sports may be attributed to improvements in compressive fabric technology. Technical progress in the garment industry is largely attributed to the emerging digital transformation in the sector, which includes changes in the manufacturing process, new business models, and material innovation. In emerging economies, sporting goods are becoming more popular due to the rise in the number of wealthy individuals. In addition, customers are becoming more health-

17 conscious, which is fuelling growth in the fitness industry, which includes aerobics, swimming, running, and yoga ( Pa et al., 2021). In addition, as more women take up sports and fitness, the market for athletic wear is growing at a rapid pace. Pa et al. (2021) explain that the sports apparel industry has benefited from strong advertising and celebrity endorsements in its quest to extend its market share. However, the changing costs of raw materials used in the production of such garments, as well as the widespread availability of counterfeit items, serve as important inhibitors to the growth of this industry. On the contrary, Pa et al. (2021) predicted that growth in the demand for fashionable and eye-catching sports gear as well as an increase in the popularity of sports clothing among young people would create future development potential for the sports apparel industry. According to Dadrasmoghadam et al. (2021), $4.03 billion was predicted to be spent on compression sportswear in the year 2020. With COVID-19, compression sportswear saw a negative demand shock around the world during the epidemic's course, which was unprecedented and overwhelming globally. Dadrasmoghadam et al. (2021) predicted that the worldwide market would shrink by 9.7% in 2020, compared to the average annual growth rate between 2017 and 2019, according to our data. It is predicted to expand from USD 4.24 billion in 2021 to USD 6.59 billion in 2028, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5 percent throughout this time period ( Dadrasmoghadam et al., 2021). When the pandemic ends, the market will revert to pre-pandemic levels, which is why the CAGR is increasing so quickly. Customers, distribution channels, and shop locations have all been taken into consideration when categorizing sports clothing markets. Children, men, and women all fall into three distinct categories in the market. Brand outlets, supermarkets, e-commerce, and reduction shops are all included in this category. Europe, Asia, North America, and the Pacific, as well as Latin America and the Caribbean, all play a role in the study of the market.

18 Figure 1: Showing Sports apparel Market projection between 2018 and 2026 This year, the men's sports apparel industry generated the highest income, and the trend is expected to continue until 2023 ( Saatchian et al., 2021). Saatchian et al. (2021) explain that this might be attributable to the fact that males are more likely to participate in sports than women. Despite this, the end-user market for women is expected to grow the quickest during the forecast period due to the growing participation of women in sports activities. Figure 2: Showing Sports Apparell Marky by distribution between 2018 and 2022

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19 According to Kalashi et al. (2021), the men's sector contributed the greatest amount of revenue in 2018 and is anticipated to proceed in this vein all through the forecast period. Because of the greater participation of men in sporting events, this is understandable. As a result of increased female sports participation, the female end-user segment is projected to expand at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period ( Kalashi et al., 2021). Figure 3: showing sports apparel market regional consumption projection is 2026 Claussen et al. (2021) explain that geographically, the United States is the most important regional market. This might be attributed to the highly developed retail system as well as the increased acceptability of sports gear as a result of aggressive advertising and celebrity brand endorsements, all of which are contributing factors. Furthermore, the increasing spending of consumers on fitness gear as a result of the fact that it is considered a fashion statement contributes to the appeal of sports equipment in this region ( Claussen et al., 2021). As retail infrastructure expands swiftly and consumer discretionary income rises,

20 China's economy is expected to grow at the quickest pace throughout the forecast period, according to analysts. In order to boost revenue and increase their power in the sportswear market share, the enterprises in the sports clothing industry have relied on acquisitions as their primary growth plan ( Wils, 2021). Product launches have also been important for major corporations in terms of expanding their product lines and remaining competitive in the global market. Significant competitors identified in the research include Nike Inc., Adidas AG, Under Armour, Puma SE, Ralph Lauren Corporation, Umbro Ltd; Fila, Inc; Lululemon Athletica Incorporation; New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc.; and Columbia Sportswear Company ( Wils, 2021). 4.0 Key Benefits for Sports Apparel Market  Sports apparel market trends, predictions, and market dynamics from 2018 to 2026 are examined in the report to uncover prospective business opportunities.  Porter's five forces research shows that buyers and suppliers have the capacity to influence the choices of stakeholders, enabling them to make profit-oriented business decisions and develop their supplier-buyer networks.  A thorough examination of the sportswear market's growth and diversification helps to uncover current prospects in the industry.  The most significant nations in each area are shown on a map based on the amount of money they bring into the global sports apparel industry. To help with benchmarking, the section on market player positioning depicts where the various market players now stand within the industry. 5.0 Important driving factors for the Athletics Clothing Fit industry Because of the hurried worldwide sports schedule geared for expansion, there are more and more injuries in sports. Innovative clothing solutions will become more

21 commonplace as outdoor sports become more popular and international contests become more commonplace. With the help of sports federations, a broad variety of athletic events may be hosted by government and private groups. According to Wilfling et al. (2021), the Indian Football Association and IMG-Reliance inked an agreement in 2019 that is likely to be finalized in the near future. As a result, increasing the number of people who participate in tournaments leads to more sports injuries, which in turn increases the demand. This is expected to have a positive impact on the expansion of the worldwide market in the coming years. 6.0 Factors that restrict options athletics clothing fit growth industry Product awareness is low, and counterfeit products are readily available, which is a hindrance to growth. The direct selling industry in the sportswear sector is hindered by athletes' inability to grasp the value of active apparel. In order to remain competitive, many small and medium-sized businesses re-engineer the products of larger companies. This is one of the reasons for the rise in the production of counterfeit products throughout the globe. According to Wilfling et al. (2021), In nations like Zambia, Japan, China, India, Argentina, and Brazil, there are just a few regional private firms that opt to create counterfeit goods at a cheaper cost, limiting the market's spread. 7.0 Fit specialist job descriptions of sport human resource professionals 7.1 Job description Attitude is the driving force behind any athletic clothing fit company's collaborative success. In this position, the Fit Specialist will be in charge of overseeing the entire customer service experience. Fit specialist responsibilities will include conversing with customers and dealing with customer complaints, as well as fostering an enthusiastic, happy, and inclusive

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22 work environment. Work within the scope of your job description to help the organization maintain its global leadership position as the leader in franchising locally-owned and operated running establishments that foster thriving running communities. 7.2 Fit specialist job requirements  Collaborate with customers to ensure that footwear, clothing, and accessories are properly fitted using our fit process; promote in-store events and training programs.  Become knowledgeable about the specifics of each shoe, garment, and accessory line in the store, as well as how the goods fit and function.  Interact with customers one-on-one and as a group to ensure that each client has a memorable customer experience from the sales floor to the cash wrap.  By actively listening to customers, you can establish genuine connections with them.  Identify the needs of the customer and make recommendations or offer alternates to those needs.  Contribute to the overall organization, cleanliness, and stock of the store.  Represent Fleet Feet Sports at all activities, gatherings, and events in which you participate. Maintain the Fleet Feet Greenville, SC brand's success by performing other tasks as directed by Fleet Feet Greenville, SC, to ensure the continued success of the Fleet Feet brand. 7.3 Fit specialist job qualifiers  Willingness to go above and beyond when it is necessary.  Flexibility and a positive attitude toward change are required. The desire to meet and exceed sales targets on one's own terms.

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23  A comprehensive understanding of what distinguishes Fleet Feet from the competition and why customers visit the store.  The ability to provide excellent customer service in all situations. Nights and weekends are included in the open availability.  Experience in the retail industry is always valued. A few of the reasons why wearing suitable athletic apparel is so important are listed below. 8.0 Clothing fit industry is attracting many Fit specialist career path Comfort is provided by the right clothing. Working out at the gym or testing one's athletic ability may be quite uncomfortable while wearing inappropriate clothing. Ill-fitting and loose clothing may obstruct your movement, while too tight clothing may inhibit your mobility and blood circulation, among other things. Because of this, selecting the appropriate size is essential. Having breathable fabric that wicks away perspiration and keeps one cool and dry may make a significant difference in how one feels on a daily basis. The use of appropriate clothing lowers the likelihood of injury. The use of high- quality compression clothing may assist in protecting the muscles from both discomfort and damage. Compression clothes help to increase blood flow to the heart, which in turn helps to give much-needed oxygen to working muscles. As a result, it reduces exhaustion and discomfort by controlling the accumulation of lactic acid in the body. Exercise is made simpler when you wear the proper clothing. Wearing the appropriate clothing will increase individuals' self-assurance. When an individual dresses in suitable clothing, you might be very motivated and more likely to achieve your goals. Seventy-nine percent of those who buy excellent gym equipment have been effective in meeting their fitness objectives. The right piece of clothing may help you

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24 feel more confident and improve your self-esteem. According to Mohammadi & Azami (2021) , in 'Enclothed Cognition,' clothing may cause psychological alterations that have a favorable impact on one's performance and confidence level. The fact that one looks well makes them feel more powerful; consequently, investing in the appropriate clothing is a win- win situation. Individuals should also choose attire that makes an individual feel secure in thier own skin. The more comfortable you feel in your clothes, the more probable it is that you will like exercising and want to continue doing it. Women of African-American descent who are self-conscious about their appearance and the clothing they wear while exercising are less likely to participate in physical activity, according to the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. Durability is an essential feature of the right clothing. If an individual engages in any type of physical activity, whether it is gym or sports, individual will experience a lot of falling, bumping, and stretching. All of these strenuous activities and training sessions may cause your clothes to get ruined, resulting in a significant amount of money being spent on replacements. The right workout equipment, which is high-quality and long-lasting, may help you save your hard-earned money while still providing you with the results you want. If an individual is exercising outside, you must take the weather into consideration. When it's hot outside, wearing the proper clothing might help you prevent heat-related illnesses. Loose clothing allows air to circulate across your body, cooling you and removing sweat. Bright colors, rather than dark ones, can help to deflect the sun's rays away from your skin. Clothing that can be easily layered in chilly weather allows you to remove things as you warm up and add layers if you get cold due to sweating while being warm overall. A layer of polypropylene next to an individual body may absorb sweat, preventing you from feeling cold as it evaporates. In cold weather, outer garments with vented apertures may also be beneficial in maintaining a comfortable body temperature. Hand and foot protection from the

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25 cold air may be provided by wearing a face mask or scarf, while gloves and woolen socks will keep your hands and feet warm. Protecting one's head is essential in all types of weather. Choose a thick hat to keep your head warm while it's chilly outside. During the warmer months, a light that will keep the sun off your face and protect your ears. When participating in physical activities, choose clothing that allows you to move freely and easily so that you may do the activity successfully and comfortably. For example, if an individual is wearing jeans and trying to stretch, the individual will not be able to stretch as much as you would be able to if you were wearing loose clothing. Shoes are very important for physical exercise, especially for high-impact activities such as running, since they absorb the shock of the ground. Sports footwear for different types of exercise, such as running, cross-training, and basketball, is usually available at most companies. According to Seifried et al. (2021), the experts at these businesses can advise the individual on the best shoes to wear for your particular sport or activity. 9.0 Conclusion In conclusion, individuals are concerned that wearing tight-fitting clothing would encourage people to compare their bodies to those who are larger. Because of these comparisons, athletes may become more self-conscious about their looks, which might lead to unhealthy weight loss or aversion to participating in particular sports. There may be another side effect of wearing tight-fitting exercise apparel, but this time it is not for the person wearing it, as the study's findings suggest. Some people may feel self-conscious about engaging in athletics because they believe that sports gear is exclusively for the physically fit. As a result, they may not train or compete in athletic activities if they believe that they aren't physically fit enough. This means individuals may have a hard time dressing in sportswear that she equates with physical health and athletic achievement, much less being attractive.

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26 Sport psychologists, whose focus is on issues that impair athletic performance, would have a difficult time treating patients whose self-esteem is undermined by this picture. When it comes to satisfying society's expectations for a specific image linked with athletics, she may not think she is capable of competing. It is possible for someone to quit a sport or physical activity because of their dissatisfaction with their attire and lack of self-confidence. Athletes who have a poor opinion of their physical abilities or who need extra motivation and support may find it difficult to take part in sports. People who have never run before, as well as elite athletes taking part in extreme sports like the Olympics and Ironman triathlons, as well as those participating in various geographical regions. Future students should focus of future study on analyzing garment fit and subjective fitness level. I would recommend this sports segment to future students regarding employment and/or internships. The present findings might be compared to individuals who are less physically active and to those who are the most accomplished athletes. Additional data on participants' self-perceptions, self-worth, and level of self-belief in their abilities to perform well might be collected in between exposure to photos.

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27 References Ahonen, N. (2022). Sporting goods industry supply chain management: Agility in the post- COVID-19 era. Alam, M. M., & Abdurraheem, I. I. (2021). COVID-19 and the financial crisis in the sports sector around the world. Sport in Society , 1-14. Arıkan, İ. İ., Ekici, S., & Tutal, V. (2021). Investigation of the effect of sports on media, marketing, consumption and popular culture. Journal of Human Sciences , 18 (4), 644- 656. Auster-Gussman, L. A., Crim, J., & Mann, T. L. (2021). The soulless cycle: Social physique anxiety as a mediator of the relation between body mass index and exercise frequency. Stigma and Health . Bozsik, F., Whisenhunt, B. L., Hudson, D. L., Bennett, B., & Lundgren, J. D. (2018). Thin is in? Think again: The rising importance of muscularity in the thin ideal female body. Sex Roles , 79 (9), 609-615. Casaló, L. V., Flavián, C., & Ibáñez-Sánchez, S. (2020). Influencers on Instagram: Antecedents and consequences of opinion leadership. Journal of business research , 117 , 510-519. Claussen, L., Lloyd, A., Ruiz, D., & Havenith, G. (2021). Experts' views on sports clothing quality. International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education , 1-12. Dadrasmoghadam, A., Sahebkaran, M. A., Etezad, S. K., Khoshbakhti, J., & Barbaar, A. (2021). The Optimal level of variation of Nike and Adidas Sporting Brands in Mashhad Sporting Stores. International Journal of Psychosocial Rehabilitation , 25 (01).

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28 Doherty, C. J., Mann, L. M., Angus, S. A., Chan, J. S., Molgat-Seon, Y., & Dominelli, P. B. (2021). Impact of wearing a surgical and cloth mask during cycle exercise. Applied Physiology, Nutrition, and Metabolism , 46 (7), 753-762. Ekblom-Bak, E., Stenling, A., Salier Eriksson, J., Hemmingsson, E., Kallings, L. V., Andersson, G., ... & Lindwall, M. (2020). Latent profile analysis patterns of exercise, sitting and fitness in adults–Associations with metabolic risk factors, perceived health, and perceived symptoms. PloS one , 15 (4), e0232210. El Masri, A., Kolt, G. S., & George, E. S. (2021). The perceptions, barriers and enablers to physical activity and minimising sedentary behaviour among Arab ‐ Australian adults aged 35 ‐ 64 years. Health Promotion Journal of Australia , 32 (2), 312-321. Fisher, M. J. R., Berbary, L. A., & Misener, K. E. (2018). Narratives of negotiation and transformation: Women's experiences within a mixed-gendered gym. Leisure Sciences , 40 (6), 477-493. Hauff, C. R. (2016). Dress to impress or dress to sweat? examining the perceptions of exercise apparel through the eyes of active women. Women in Sport and Physical Activity Journal , 24 (2), 99-109. Jia, J., Xu, C., Pan, S., Xia, S., Wei, P., Noh, H. Y., ... & Jiang, X. (2018). Conductive thread- based textile sensor for continuous perspiration level monitoring. Sensors , 18 (11), 3775. Jiang, Y. (2018). What can trigger Chinese female self-objectification: Revealing clothes, tight-fitting clothes, or both?. Open Journal of Social Sciences , 6 (04), 208. Kabel, A., Dimka, J., & McBee-Black, K. (2017). Clothing-related barriers experienced by people with mobility disabilities and impairments. Applied Ergonomics , 59 , 165-169.

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29 Kalashi, M., Sahebkaran, M. A., Karimi, J., Jami Alahmadi, A., & MohammadiAskarabadi, M. (2021). Comparing Brand Communication Model in Sports Shoes and Sports Clothing Industries. Journal of New Studies in Sport Management , 2 (1), 82-94. Lee, H., Jin, H., & Lee, Y. (2020). Analysis of thermal sensation and wearing comfort before and after Bikram yoga activity. Journal of the Korean Society of Clothing and Textiles , 44 (5), 810-823. Lipson, S. M., Stewart, S., & Griffiths, S. (2020). Athleisure: A qualitative investigation of a multi-billion-dollar clothing trend. Body Image , 32 , 5-13. Michaelson, D., Kim, D. E., & Ha, Y. (2018). Scuba Diver's Use of Selection Criteria for Assessing Wetsuit Using FEA Model. International Journal of Costume and Fashion , 18 (2), 45-64. Mohammadi, S., & Azami, M. K. (2021). A Look to Fitness Industry in Iran. In The Global Private Health & Fitness Business: A Marketing Perspective . Emerald Publishing Limited. Murray-Davis, B., Grenier, L., Atkinson, S. A., Mottola, M. F., Wahoush, O., Thabane, L., ... & Hutton, E. K. (2019). Experiences regarding nutrition and exercise among women during early postpartum: a qualitative grounded theory study. BMC pregnancy and childbirth , 19 (1), 1-11. Myre, M., Glenn, N. M., & Berry, T. R. (2021). Exploring the impact of physical activity- related weight stigma among women with self-identified obesity. Qualitative Research in Sport, Exercise and Health , 13 (4), 586-603. Pa, W. A. M. W., Zainal, M. S., & Mahmud, M. S. (2021). Factor Of Brand Loyalty In Sportswear Among Student Athletes. Journal of Contemporary Issues in Business and Government Vol , 27 (1).

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30 Patrick, K., & Xu, Y. (2018). Exploring generation Y consumers' fitness clothing consumption: A means-end chain approach. Journal of Textile and Apparel, Technology and Management , 10 (3). Phillips, D. B., Ehnes, C. M., Welch, B. G., Lee, L. N., Simin, I., & Petersen, S. R. (2018). Influence of work clothing on physiological responses and performance during treadmill exercise and the Wildland Firefighter Pack Test. Applied Ergonomics , 68 , 313-318. Plante, T. G., Oppezzo, M., Tran, B., & Diaz, L. A. (2018). Perceived fitness and exercise intensity can predict exercise enjoyment. Prichard, I., McLachlan, A. C., Lavis, T., & Tiggemann, M. (2018). The impact of different forms of# fitspiration imagery on body image, mood, and self-objectification among young women. Sex Roles , 78 (11), 789-798. Saatchian, V., Azizi, B., & Talebpour, M. (2021). ADIDAS Sportswear Brand Popularity Model in Iranian Consumers. Sports Business Journal , 1 (1). Schmidt, A., Paul, R., Classen, E., Morlock, S., & Beringer, J. (2016). Comfort testing and fit analysis of military textiles. In Performance Testing of Textiles (pp. 25-37). Woodhead Publishing. Seifried, C., Agyemang, K. J., Walker, N., & Soebbing, B. (2021). Sport management and business schools: A growing partnership in a changing higher education environment. The International Journal of Management Education , 19 (3), 100529. Sveinson, K., Hoeber, L., & Toffoletti, K. (2019). "If people are wearing pink stuff they're probably not real fans": Exploring women's perceptions of sport fan clothing. Sport Management Review , 22 (5), 736-747.

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31 Tokizawa, K., Son, S. Y., Oka, T., & Yasuda, A. (2019). Effectiveness of a field-type liquid cooling vest for reducing heat strain while wearing protective clothing. Industrial health , 2018-0182. Webb, J. B., Vinoski, E. R., Bonar, A. S., Davies, A. E., & Etzel, L. (2017). Fat is fashionable and fit: A comparative content analysis of Fatspiration and Health at Every Size® Instagram images. Body image , 22 , 53-64. Wilfling, J., Havenith, G., Raccuglia, M., & Hodder, S. (2021). Consumer expectations and perception of clothing comfort in sports and exercise garments. Research Journal of Textile and Apparel . Wilfling, J., Havenith, G., Raccuglia, M., & Hodder, S. (2021). Consumer expectations and perception of clothing comfort in sports and exercise garments. Research Journal of Textile and Apparel . Wils, S. (2021). The Power of Influencer Marketing: The Most Suitable and Valuable Influencer Type for Sports Clothing Brands. Zhou, X., Hanlon, C., Robertson, J., Spaaij, R., Westerbeek, H., Hossack, A., & Funk, D. C. (2018). Dress for fit: An exploration of female activewear consumption. Sport Management Review , 21 (4), 403-415.

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The Relationship Between Clothing Fit and Perceived Fitness Level

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