I am a regular gym-goer. I honestly wish I could say I enjoy the thrill of springing out of bed at 5.30am on a cold morning to get to an RPM class. It would make life a lot easier.

In reality, this is not the case. And let me be the first to say that I find anyone who does love leaping out of bed at the crack of dawn to go for a run around the block mildly annoying. In my world, that sort of behaviour is best left for Olympic athletes and bootcamp instructors.

No, for the majority of us, exercising can be a chore from time to time. Of course, there are those days when you’re full of beans and can’t wait to work off some energy (happens about once a decade for me), but most days simply aren’t like this. Once you’re actually exercising, it’s okay, but finding the motivation to get started can prove to be quite the challenge.

For me, having nice workout gear makes it so much easier to get out of bed and get to the gym. After all, no one gets excited about wearing tattered old trackies and your boyfriend’s cast-off VB t-shirt.

The good news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to find decent workout gear. I’ve found that some of the most affordable - and durable - leggings and sports tops come from the discount department stores, such as Target and Big W. Big W’s cotton rib tanks are perfect for sports, and you can pick up two for $16.

Personally, I also find Supre is great for gym gear. Although it can be quite a task to actually enter a Supre store - particularly given the fact that the space left to squeeze between racks of clothing indicates that the shop is meant for someone at least half my age - once you get inside, it’s worth it for the Sporte range. I have a pair of Sporte leggings that I bought for $25 over a year ago and they’ve lasted better than some of my more expensive workout clothes.

While you can scrimp on your workout clothes, keep in mind that you should never, ever go cheap with your footwear. Always invest in quality shoes, depending on your needs. Visit your local sporting goods shop - such as Rebel Sport, Foot Locker or Amart AllSports to get professional advice on your runners. After all, your feet have to carry you around for a long time, and destroying them with cheap shoes won’t pay off in the long run.

Last but not least, if you are interested in health issues and live in Sydney, don’t forget that the Mind Body Spirit Festival is on at Darling Harbour until this Sunday, November 11. This year’s festival is particularly exciting - special guests include Allison Dubois (she’s the psychic on whom the Medium television series is based) and celebrity witch (yes, there is such a thing) and singer Fiona Horne. If you’re in Melbourne, the MBS Festival rolls into town on November 23.

By Caroline Warnes

When it comes to shoes, I am something of an extremist.

For me, they have to be either fabulous stilettos (usually reserved for the weekend so I can take them off if needs be) or comfy flats. I don’t like kitten heels. Wedges are not for me. I must be in either extreme comfort or glamorous discomfort at all times.

However, this season’s 15-centimetre Yves Saint Laurent “Tribute” heels (pictured here) scare me. Just looking at the photo makes my arches cry out in protest. And this is coming from someone who owns a pair of the most ridiculously high Jimmy Choos in existence. Granted, they have spent most of the last four years sitting in my cupboard, as I can’t walk around in them for more than 45 minutes without either falling over or otherwise making a fool of myself. Particularly after a few drinks. I know this from experience.

So, in short, you should expect to see copies of these ankle-breaking YSL Tributes in stores soon. However, don’t expect to see me wearing them. This summer I have decided to embrace flat shoes as much as possible. Honestly, my feet have had enough of heels for now.

Anyone else who loves flat shoes will be happy to know that there are plenty of glamorous options around at the moment. If you want something ultra-affordable, I’ve been really impressed with the quality of shoes from stores such as K-Mart, Target and Big W in recent times. Big W has some canvas ballet flats that would be perfect for going casual on the weekend for under $15.

If you’re willing to go over the $100 mark, I noticed some pretty and stylish Steve Madden patent flats in Myer earlier this week in this season’s hot colours such as electric blue and candy green. If you’re looking for something that will last several seasons, you can’t go past red patent.

Nine West also has plenty of flat styles this year, in both casual and dress. At $89.95, the Caro style is a bargain.

Last but not least, who can go past the humble thong in the summer months? For a different take on it, how about the Ipanema range from Brazilian company Grendene, which boasts supermodel Gisele Bundchen as its spokesperson. Hey, I may not have Gisele’s looks, but at least I can wear her shoes!

By Caroline Warnes