From shorts to hoodies – we test fitness gear to help boost motivation

DRESSING for success isn’t just for the workplace.

A survey by gymwear brand Barbell Apparel found 79 per cent of people believe owning great workout clothes is an important step toward fitness success and 85 per cent said looking cool while working out gave them more confidence.

Jane Atkinson looks at gear to help boost motivation.

HOODIE

MADE using polyester from recycled plastic bottles, the Sprint Hoodie from gym brand dare2b has a soft and stretchy feel while the fabric is both sweat-wicking and anti-bacterial too, killing odour while you wear it.

What I really love is that this provides UPF40 sun protection and the thumb loops will keep you warm.

Not too tight and not too loose, it’s a flattering length and the crossover hood and kangaroo pocket on the front make it look stylish.

Not a bad price too at £30.

See dare2b.com/womens-sprint-city-lightweight-hoodie-black

SHORTS

WHEN the weather hots up, the last thing you need is long leggings to make a workout even tougher.

I love these My Protein Women’s Power Cycling Shorts.

And although they are called cycling shorts I tried them out on a run and loved them.

They stay up, which is key, and they have a side pocket which I love as I like to take my phone out with me to track how I am doing.

They are short but flattering and are treated with an antimicrobial finish which keeps you fresher for longer.

These are now my go to running shorts. I love the range of sizes that My Protein offers.

These come in XXS to XXL, £32.

See mp.com/sports-clothing

TRAINERS

SHOES (and bras for women!) are your most important piece of kit, no matter what time of year it is – and making sure they fit correctly is vital.

I went to my local Runners Need store for a gait analysis and discovered I’ve been wearing shoes that are a size too small.

I ran on a treadmill which showed my gait and then I put my feet into a special machine that showed which trainers in the shop were the best for me.

It suggested a pair of Brooks trainers that are brilliant.

They’re a full size bigger than I’ve worn, a great width for my wide feet and the numbness I sometimes got while running has disappeared.

This expert gait analysis is £15 or free with the purchase of running footwear in-store or online within 30 days.

See runnersneed.com/expert-advice/gear-guides/gait-analysis.html