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    1. Health and Fitness

    Finally, Sportswear That Actually Makes Us Want To Go To The Gym...

    If your sad-looking retro-but-not-in-a-good-way T-shirt and faded joggers are the things holding you back from hitting the gym, look no further. We want a killer bikini bod and it's going to take some work. A new gym kit is needed.

    By Holly Welch
    Published 6 January 2014 In Features

    When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

    Sportswear - Lucas Hugh
    Sportswear - Lucas Hugh
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    If your sad-looking retro-but-not-in-a-good-way T-shirt and faded joggers are the things holding you back from hitting the gym, look no further. We want a killer bikini bod and it's going to take some work. A new gym kit is needed.

    Here's our guide to the best places that have some actually really very nice stuff:

    1. Lucas Hugh These guys produce high end cool separates that you don't mind being seen in on the way to and from the gym. And they're tested on professional sportsmen and women. Find them in Harrods, Matches and Fenwicks or directly at

    lucashugh.com.

    2. Zoe Karssen Think super-cool jersey pieces with super-cool patterns. Wear them all the time not just when exercising. The leopard print hoody is our favourite. Shop Zoe Karssen at Net-a-Porter.

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    Sportswear - Zoe Karssen

    Sportswear - Zoe Karssen

    3. Gant Oversized tees are our exercise staple. Make sure your's is loose and cotton. Our top tip: always make sure you have a cool slogan on the front to distract from your red, sweating face.

    Sportswear - Gant

    Sportswear - Gant

    4. Patagonia Patagonia’s Pliant yoga leggings are the best in the business. Tight around the ankle, super-stretchy, super-quick to dry and the wide waist band make them very flattering. This company have brilliant ethical and eco credentials, too, so it's not just your body that is benefiting.

    Marie Claire Newsletter

    Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!

    By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.

    Sportswear - Patagonia

    Sportswear - Patagonia

    5. Vivo Barefoot Super lightweight trainers that make you feel light as a feather. Vivo Barefoot are pioneers in the barefoot movement, which promotes following your natural rythms and posture for increased health benefits. They come in sleek shapes and fun colours, too – what more could you want?

    Sportswear - Vivo Barefoot

    Sportswear - Vivo Barefoot

    6. Nike They have their reputation as one of the best for a reason, because they are. Simple. Their Flash running jacket means we have no excuse when it rains….

    Sportswear - Nike

    Sportswear - Nike

    7. UGG They do so much more than just furry boots, you know. We love these track pants - they come in a cool colour and a great shape that holds - no baggy knees here, thank you very much.

    Sportswear - UGG

    Sportswear - UGG

    8. Brooklyn We Go Hard Leave the free ‘welcome’ backpack the gym gave you at your induction at home. Instead, get a cool tote that you can actually fit everything in and isn’t an obvious 'sports' bag. This denim number is worth every penny.

    Sportswear - Brooklyn We Go Hard

    Sportswear - Brooklyn We Go Hard

    9. Spanx The ultimate shapewear company has very kindly created perfect tanks to enhance our sillouettes as we work out - before all the hard work has paid off! We have a feeling their black ribbed tank is going to be our workout staple.

    Don't fancy the gym? Here are 10 fitness DVDs that we're loving right now...

    Holly Welch
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