Pro tips for picking training clothes and shoes

Many people choose their training clothes and shoes based on look. Discover why comfort and fit matter more.

• The training outfits you wear have a direct bearing on your workout performance, so it's necessary to make an informed decision when making a choice.
• You should consider the type of fabric when making your purchase since some exercises require specific clothing and footwear.
• Popular exercises such as running and walking require comfortable shoes that cushion your feet from the impact of movement.
• Fortunately, there is a wide variety of new designs capable of enhancing both performance and comfort.

• Using the wrong trainers can lead to aching heels and shin splints, so you need to pay particular attention to the type of training shoes you choose. Podiatrists claim that up to 65 per cent of people who buy trainers make a wrong choice, choosing shoes that fail to match their intended use and foot type.
• It's necessary to arm yourself with the basic knowledge about your specific needs. For instance, high-arched feet do not provide sufficient shock absorbing characteristics, thus require neutral or cushioned shoes. Normal feet generally absorb shock much better and are well suited to shoes with fewer control features (stability shoes).
• A good shoe allows you to wiggle your toes freely and offers sufficient padding for improved comfort. Motion control shoes and orthotics are great for flat-footed runners because they compensate for a variety of foot issues. Whether you're a fast or an off-road runner, you can pick the right training shoe from a wide selection, including performance trainers, racing and off-road shoes.

• Learning how to select your training clothes boosts your level of confidence for optimum performance.
• Different types of fabrics offer distinct benefits; some variants absorb sweat, while others pull it away from the skin.
• Runners, tennis players and basketball players can choose from a variety of breathable synthetic fabrics that pull the sweat away from skin and keep you cool.
• Avoid cotton variants that absorb sweat and may feel heavy during and after exercising as well as clothing made of plastic or rubber-based materials that prevent sweat from evaporating.
• If you're doing yoga or Pilates, try loose-fitting outfits. Seasons can determine the type of clothing that is suitable, particularly when exercising outdoors.
• Regardless of the type of exercise you do, whether it's jogging, walking, cycling, swimming or doing yoga, you should select items that look good and feel good on you.
• Although emphasis should be placed on important functional aspects, such as fit and comfort, you must also wear training clothes and shoes that make you feel comfortable and confident. This helps lift your mood and boost performance.