From lightweight workout tops to stylish capri pants and fitted, flared trousers, there's no need to work up a sweat over looking good in the gym says Francine Miller.

We've all been there: The start of a New Year and a New You from now on, you convince yourself, you are going to cast aside unhealthy snacks for more wholesome foods and sign up for annual membership to your local gym.

Bursting with energy, you pack your gym bag in the morning with all the good intentions of heading straight over there after work. But dark days, cold weather and flagging spirits, all eventually take their toll and your membership card becomes nothing more than a dusty relic on your mantelpiece.

Well, if all this seems too familiar, why not kickstart your enthusiasm for the gym with a brand new sports wardrobe?

Replacing your worn-out kit could help motivate you and make you feel more confident and positive about tackling the gym again.

For those sprinting their way into the new year with aerobic exercise, look for sportswear that allows body heat to evaporate away from the skin, avoiding unsightly sweat marks and keeping you cool.

Check out USA PRO's support vest, £30, and fitted flared trousers, £40, from www.figleaves.com.

But cheap and cheerful will work just as fine. TK Maxx offers discounts on brand name vest tops for £12.99, and jogging bottoms for £14.99 or check out the basic rib vest, £4.50 and green colourback joggers, £16.99, from Next.

For those who find jogging bottoms uncomfortable, capri trousers keep the ankle area free and are not as stifling next to your skin. Check out SweatyBetty's capri pants, £55, or Nike's capri pants, £29.99.

Away from the fitness suite, those taking up holistic or wellbeing exercises, such as yoga or Pilates, will benefit from wearing stretchy clothing that moves with your body.

Check out Morgan's new Relax collection, which includes a cute vest for £17.99.

A must-have buy for your new wardrobe is a supportive sports bra. Try Triumph Sport Powermove bra for medium impact, £24, Puma high impact sports bra, £19.50, or Shock Absorber, from £18, all available from www.figleaves.com.

Finally, invest in a good pair of quality trainers that are strong and supportive. Staff will be able to advise you on the best shoes for you, whether you're seeking a specialist pair for running or jogging, or an all-rounder shoe.

Check out Next's silver pull on trainers, £26.99, or Skecher's ladies' range, from £30, from John Lewis.

And good news for keen fashionistas out there accessorizing is just as important in the gym as it is on any other occasion.

Check out the anti-microbial gym bag, £5, from John Lewis, to keep your gear in check after a workout.

For those who want to monitor the benefits of their hard work, check out the Polar F11 heart rate monitor and watch, £99, also from John Lewis.