Q & A: What difference does the exercise clothing I wear make?

Q. What difference does the exercise clothing I wear make?

A. The kind of clothing you workout in can make a big difference in how comfortable you are and how you feel about yourself while working out. The key is to choose styles that fit and please you, and fabrics that work for, not against you and your activity. You also must dress appropriately for the climate.

The first clothing consideration is your base layer (which is your only layer in warmer conditions). Most of us have a ready stock of cotton t-shirts, sweats and shorts, and they're a comfy choice for casual wear. But put cotton next to your skin during your workout, and it loses its comfortable status. Cotton holds moisture next to the skin, and gets heavier when wet. Wear fabric next to your skin that has moisture-moving or "wicking" properties. Technical fabrics that wick, such as Coolmax, Dryline and others, actually pull perspiration away from your skin to the other side of the fabric. Shorts, tank tops, and t-shirts are available in wicking fabrics, as are sports bras and socks.

In cooler weather, follow your wicking base layer with an insulating layer such as Polartec or Sanchilla, and top off with a wind-breaking layer that's water resistant and breathable. Layering affords you the ability to remove garments if you get too hot. Always wear a hat in cold temperatures - you can lose up to 50% of your body heat through your head.

The style of your workout garb may help - or hinder your performance. First, choose styles that raise your body confidence. Buy the colors and styles you like and feel confident donning to the world - even if you workout alone in your basement. Make sure your clothes fit properly, improper fit can cause rubbing or chafing. Go for a snug fit but not restrictive, and nix the baggy look entirely. You want your clothes to move with you, not get in your way.

Always try on your selections in the store before you buy - put on that sports bra and move the way you will when you're working out in it - that's the only way to know if it fits correctly.

A note on technical fabric care: wash your tech duds in powdered laundry detergent, as the liquid form can clog wicking fibers. Also, when possible opt for air drying your gear, as the heat from the dryer can shrink garments and damage wicking fibers.