Since fashion and fitness pretty much go hand in hand - looking great, feeling great - it's important to dignify all that running, jumping and diving with accordingly worthy gear.

First, get the tone right. Avoid appearing too much like a try-hard: kitted out in a brand-new top and matching bottoms, while still unable to perform a couple of rudimentary squat thrusts. Also deplorable is the louche, “forgot my kit” look often favoured by gym newbies. Make an effort.

To get the fitness style basics right, just follow the usual formula for dressing well: consider your God-given attributes, then complement them with a versatile armoury of gear.

Footwear is crucial. If you get that wrong, exercise is pointless. Actual performance trainers are frequently more exciting than the cooler retro versions. There is no point protesting that all sportswear, even Dunlop Green Flash, was once cutting-edge technology. Drop the retro and cut to the chase with modern flair. Socks are also a linchpin. The invisible mini variety are over; low-ankle options are the only way to go.

At the gym, favour a “clever” versatile top - one that affords you equal states of comfort whether you are rowing, running or leaning jauntily on a big pulley-machine thing. The best designs have seams and zips that don't irritate the skin or interfere with chest hair on repetitive movement. Bear in mind that wicking technology for sweat dispersal has moved on to “body mapping”, in which performance fabrics and vents are strategically placed to suit the body's ventilation needs.

When it comes to swimming, somewhat controversially, it's all about Speedos. Board shorts or anything with pockets tend to flap about and fill with water. This isn't beach or park posing, it's training, so function matters. The latest Speedo style essentials are called Jammers. They look a lot like cycling shorts, but don't let that fool you - these are the future of training.