Whether you have been a fitness buff for some time or you are ready to start a regular workout routine, one thing remains the same: you need a good selection of workout clothing.

Granted, you could probably make do with a t-shirt and sweatpants and go a few rounds on the exercise bike in your living room, but to be as comfortable as possible during exercise, actual workout wear is key.

As you shop for items that you can wear while at the gym or jogging around the neighborhood, as well as “athleisure wear” that you can don post workout, check out the following suggestions as well as some general tips.

For Women: Compression Leggings

Leggings are a workhorse piece of workout wear for women; look for a brand that offers compression and moisture-wicking fabric. This way, you can wear them comfortably all year long. They move well with your body and allow you to stretch, run, bike, Zumba or lift weights with ease.

For Men: Workout Shorts

When choosing shorts, go with an elastic waistband for comfort and side pockets to hold your keys or phone when out for a brisk walk or jog. Sweat-wicking fabric is also a bonus to draw heat and moisture away from your body and keep you feeling cool even at the end of an intense workout.

For Women: A Supportive Sports Bra

Investing in an easy to pull-on sports bra is vital — choose one with a wide elastic band at the bottom so it won’t ride up. As Mayo Clinic notes, this workout wear item is especially important to help keep your breasts from feeling sore and sensitive as you are jogging, kickboxing, weight training or running.

For Men: T-Shirts With Mesh Vents

You might be tempted to wear the t-shirts you have in your drawer, but treat yourself to at least a couple of crew t’s with mesh vents in places where you are most likely to sweat. This will reduce the chance of overheating and feeling clammy. Also, look for t-shirts that have flat stitching on the inside, which will eliminate uncomfortable chafing.

For Everybody: A Jacket or Hoodie for Post Workout

After you finish your exercise class or run on the treadmill at the gym, you may want to stop at the store on the way home or grab a quick latte. Keep a zip-up hoodie or jacket in your car so you can throw it on over your workout clothes.

For women, the Champion Reverse Weave Quilted Puffer Jacket will look right at home in the supermarket or coffee shop; as a bonus, Champion clothing is known for its comfort and affordability. For guys, a zip hoodie that is light and breathable is a comfortable choice.

A Few Additional Tips

For those with super-sensitive skin, wearing workout clothes made of cotton — at least the ones that will be right up against your skin — is a good idea. As The Fabric of Our Lives notes, cotton is hypoallergenic and natural, and it is also quite breathable so it will help to keep you dry as you exercise.

Also, select workout wear that is comfortable and not super tight on your body. The exception is when biking or running; for these workouts steer clear of loose pants that could get tangled up as you go.

Proper Gear = Great Workout

Once you shop for some key pieces of workout wear, you may be amazed at the difference in how you feel. You want to do whatever you can to boost your chances of sticking with your exercise program, and having the correct clothing will help you reach your goals.