I recently received several questions about clothing choices for working out, so will devote this column to answers to these questions, along with more exercise clothing facts than I am sure you bargained for.

When I first started working out at a health club in 1983, we were influenced by the Jane Fonda look - at least I was. Tights, leg warmers, leotards and colorful outfits were the norm and where I exercised, we worked on looking special.

Today - thank goodness - I see exercise outfits from the fashionable and colorful to the super casual. My underlying theme in this column, as I answer the following questions, is that whenever you are exercising the primary goal is to be comfortable in your clothing.

We are no longer constricted by "fashion" at the gym, but if you want to be fashionable, that's OK too. The whole idea is to feel good enough about the way you look that you will continue your exercise program.

Now, on with the questions:

Q. I usually exercise at home - not the gym. But I see the people in tight spandex clothes, I think loose fitting items are more comfortable. My friend said it is easier to move in tights. What do you suggest? Should I wear a bra?

A. Just review my opening remarks. Again, exercise in the loose fitting clothing if you are more comfortable. I, personally, like tights - but breathable tights and leotards. Never wear impermeable or non-breathable garments.

The notion that wearing non-breathable leggings while exercising will result in fat loss from the legs is a myth. This habit is a dangerous practice that could lead to heat stress and/or heat injury.

Wearing a bra (and an exercise bra with extra support) is a good idea if you are doing a lot of jumping or high intensity exercise.

Q. When we walk outside my friend wears a hat and layers of clothing to "protect" herself from the heat. To my way of thinking, the less you wear the better when it is hot. What do you think?

A. When exercising in the heat, you are correct that it is important to not impede heat loss from the body. Never wear anything or do anything that will interfere with heat loss. So, always wear lightweight, well-ventilated clothing.

Cotton materials are cooler; most synthetics retain heat. Wear light-colored clothing if exercising in the sun; white reflects heat better than other colors.

When exercising in the cold, you should wear several layers of clothing. By layering clothing, garments can be removed and replaced as needed. In the cold, a head covering is also important because considerable body heat radiates from the head.

Also, be sure to allow for adequate ventilation of sweat. Cotton is a good choice because it soaks up sweat readily and allows evaporation. Even when wet, wool garments help maintain body warmth.

And when wind chill is a problem, nylon materials are good for outerwear. However, since they will not allow for the water vapors to evaporate from the inner clothing, remove outer nylon garments during exercise and replace them during rest periods.

Q. Do walking or running etc. shoes make a difference? I am certainly not an athlete. I just exercise some at home not even on a machine and actually find that for me barefoot is better. Am I missing something?

A. Yes, shoes are super important if you are performing any upright leg movement that is aerobic in nature. For yoga, however, barefoot is preferred. Aerobic shoes provide shock absorption and injury prevention. They also provide external support to prevent lateral instability and related foot, ankle and knee injuries.

I even suggest wearing a good aerobic shoe for outside walking. Nowadays, fitness shoes come in many varieties and one type doesn't fit all. If you run, get running shoes. If you walk, walking shoes. And aerobics shoes for classes at the gym.

When my students - or I - start feeling any discomfort in my legs, feet and/or knees, I suggest purchasing a new pair of aerobics shoes (even when the current pair still looks like new). Go to a reputable fitness shoe store and try on many - with help from the clerk. The topnotch stores let you return a pair of shoes if they don't work well for you.

There are also great special inner soles that you can purchase to increase the life and comfort of the shoes.

In my opinion, the shoes we wear when exercising are the most important part of our clothing. I am glad you asked the question!