Program Levels
Additional Information
Before You Start
Components of a Workout
Principles of Exercise
Exercise List
Cardio Training Info
Strength Training Info
Glossary of Terms
Before You Start
Clothing and Footware
Talk to Your Physician
Set Goals/Get Motivated
Clothing & Footware
Select the Proper Clothing and Footwear
Choosing the right fitness clothing and equipment is important for your exercise pleasure. Here are some general guidelines about deciding what to wear:
Selecting Workout Clothing
Think comfort. Shorts, tee shirts, whatever strikes your
fancy. You want clothes that don't chafe your skin and that will protect you from the sun when you're outside.
Wear light-colored clothes, plenty of sunscreen and
sunglasses if you're exercising outdoors. You may also want to invest in clothes made of special wicking material such as CoolMax. This fabric keeps you cool and dry in the hot summer months.
Wear the right shoes for your activity. For weight training
and low impact activities consider a cross-training shoe or a walking shoe. If you're going to be running, you'll want a running shoe so your feet will have plenty of support. Similarly, if you're participating in a sport such as basketball or football. You'll want a sport-specific shoe so you don't hurt yourself.
Make sure your clothes and shoes have reflective
material on them if you're out and about at night.
Be picky about your workout socks. If they're too thick
or thin you could get blisters, which can ruin a good workout.
There's no right and wrong when it comes to exercise clothes. Wear whatever makes you feel good and keeps the sweat away.
Selecting the Right Shoe
Shop late in the day because your feet swell during the day.
Measure your foot while standing. Try on both shoes
  with the socks you will wear.
Buy for your larger foot (feet are rarely the same exact size).
Allow a thumbnail's width between the tip of the shoe and your big toe.
Choose shoes that are comfortable immediately. If they
  hurt in the store, don't buy them.
Look for a moderately priced shoe. Price is not necessarily
  an indication of quality.
Consider getting an evaluation by a doctor, physical
  therapist or podiatrist to learn your foot type.