Fashion: A great fit for the new you

January is the time for fresh starts. While the post-festive return to the daily grind is something few of us look forward to, it’s hard to escape those positive vibes that come with the beginning of a new year and it inevitably gets us thinking about some changes we’d like to put in place going forward.

And, after a merry few weeks of guzzling mince pies, Christmas cake and too many glasses of fizz, the majority of us tend to approach the new year with a resolution to ditch the junk and commit to getting healthier and in better shape.

The thought of ditching the sofa in favour of the gym might be a little daunting, but fitness has never been so fashionable and, with plenty of new workout trends to embrace in 2018, finding that much-needed motivation to get moving should be a doddle.

If you’re guilty of signing up for a January gym subscription, only to throw in the towel a few weeks later, you might be pleased to know that group exercise is on the up.

“Group exercise has undergone a complete transformation in recent years,” says Elaine Denton, fitness manager at David Lloyd Clubs.

“HIIT training, strength and conditioning, circuits, cycling, yoga and Pilates have revolutionised the way we exercise, and research shows that group exercise helps people stick to their long-term goals.

“Whether in a competitive environment or not, that social interaction, motivation and fun are all elements that keep people hooked.”

As well as rallying the troops, wearable fitness technology is predicted to be key in helping people to stay inspired to work out and with the ability to record and track your progress against others, it’s a nifty way of proving to yourself that all of the hard work is paying off.

Hot Yoga, high intensity, dance-inspired work-outs and invigorating outdoor classes and events are also hot on the horizon for 2018, and with so much variety, even the fitness phobes among us should find plenty of inspiration to get in shape.

Of course, with working out becoming the new going out, it’s only fitting to get yourself geared up in the latest fitness wear – after all, if you look you good, you feel good, and there’s no reason you can’t bring a splash of style into your new healthy regime.

Animal’s new activewear collection includes a wide range of comfortable and stylish items suitable for the gym, running and yoga, each with specific workout-ready features so you’re both comfortable and well equipped.

The Niyama black moisture wicking leggings are super flattering, lightweight and stretchy, perfect for a yoga or Pilates session, and pair perfectly with the colourful cosmic-print sports bra or layered vest, which will keep you cool as you build up a sweat.

For outdoor sessions, the brightly coloured Allyson dash hoodie and Sia sprint jacket will ensure you stay warm and with their built- in audio ports, you can bring your own soundtrack to your sweat session to help keep yourself motivated.

Every Second Counts, White Stuff and Long Tall Sally have a great selection of striking prints and metallic workout wear if you aren’t afraid to go bold, and their collection of colourful sports bra and leggings combos are super comfortable and stylish, if you don’t mind showing a little skin.

Tesco’s F&F workout range keeps things chic in black with contrasting panels, form fitting tops and active crops tops, while Figleaves’ collection of brightly coloured sports bras are the must-have addition to gym bag.

And, with a pair of supportive trainers and a can-do attitude, you will be well equipped to take on any fitness challenge thrown your way in the new year.