Davina McCall: Fit for purpose

Now the latest product to launch and set to take off in 2012, is simply called Hotpants. Research has shown that for every gram of sweat we produce during exercise, we burn half a calorie. These new Hotpants increase perspiration levels by up to 80 per cent using enhanced Bio-ceramic technology.

Zaggora, the brains behind the brand, says the Hotpants target cellulite-prone areas caused by poor circulation (due to sitting down at a desk all day, perhaps) meaning layers of connective tissue under the skin break down and cause fat to build up and show at the skin’s surface. Zaggora has also done the maths, claiming that if the Hotpants are worn for 30 minutes a day, every day, there is potential to lose two jeans sizes in two weeks.

Engineered exercise wear is really gaining ground, to the extent that celebrity exercisers are starting to get behind it, too.

TV presenter and celebrity fitness expert Davina McCall is launching a new range of workout clothing for Next.

Alongside comfy vests, leggings, hoodies and more, there are trainers and everyday pumps featuring dual intensity mid-sole technology that reduces stress on load-bearing joints. This means you can also incorporate supportive fitness wear into your normal casual wardrobe. With a hugely successful range of fitness DVDs, Davina is an expert on looking good while keeping fit. “My approach was to concentrate on what I would wear, thinking carefully about the details that matter to me, like a place for an MP3 player, or reflective strips on the bottoms – essential when you’re jogging in the early morning or at dusk”, says Davina. “And I’ve ensured that the work-out tops are extremely solid and secure,” she adds.

The range launches throughout Next stores, online and in the Next directory in spring 2012.

For those who like to exercise outdoors, the look, feel and performance of sports wear is a very important matter.

Throughout the windy and rainy winter months, exercise commands loose, technical fabrics that can be layered up, especially for travelling to and from the gym or for running outdoors.

Sweaty Betty’s winter collection is ideal, with lots of loose knitwear, thermal running tops, thin yoga wear layers and more. This red, basketball style running jacket is a lightweight solution to stay cool yet keep protection against the wind.

So, if you want to get ahead in the fitness game for 2012, it’s time to invest in some serious techno-gear.