Looking fantastic isn't all about what you wear; how you feel is even more important, really. If you are well rested and hydrated and healthy, it will show in your skin and hair and demeanor. Your health is worth committing to, and the first step to a successful exercise routine is to have the right equipment. Let's talk about how to gear up for walking, running, and yoga.

Photo from Zappos

If your resolution is to walk more this year, you will need good walking shoes. Walking shoes are more substantial than running shoes, because they are designed for WALKING not running. Don't assume that since you are JUST walking, you can wear any old shoe; walking in the wrong shoes will put stress on bones and joints, and honestly, nothing will dissuade you from working out faster than constant pain. Get some proper shoes, even if you're just planning to walk around the block every morning.

What exactly should you look for in a walking shoe? The Walking Site has a printable list of eight things to consider when you shop.

1) Look for a low, supportive heel that rounds (or bevels) in. A thick heel or one that flairs out will cause your foot to slap down rather than roll. This slows down forward momentum and increases the occurrence of sore shins.

2) A walker's foot hits heel first and then rolls gradually from heel-to-toe. So, you will need a flexible sole and more bend in the toe than a runner. You should be able to twist and bend the toe area.

3) Next, look for a shoe that is light weight and breathable. The last thing you want is the clunky heavy leather walking shoe.

They also recommend that you replace your walking shoes every 300 to 600 miles. I want you to let me know when you have walked 600 miles, please.

Running shoes are NOT the same as walking shoes; if you are going to run AND walk, you will need two pairs of shoes. What should you look for in a running shoe? Cool Running has all the answers, in a multi-part series on how to choose running shoes.

Why buy a real running shoe?
Because you want to LOOK FAST of course. OK, really, running shoes provide the best protection for your feet, legs and body from the repeated stress of thousands of foot landings per mile. Each time you take a stride and land, your foot has to absorb two to three times your body weight. This repeated impact is different from other sports. Running shoes have built-in features that enable you to run day after day more comfortably and with less chance of over-use injury.

The tips are clear and helpful and funny, which is really what exercise should be all about.

The best way to find the right running shoes is to look for a boutique that specializes in athletic shoes. Check local message boards for recommendations, or talk to friends who are serious runners. The same goes for walking shoes. If you're going to order from the Internet, order more than one pair, and in more than one size, and try them on at home. Keep in mind that Zappos offers free overnight shipping and free returns. You want to be sure that you get the perfect fit, and the only way to do that is to really try things on.

Finally, the best time to shop for shoes is at the end of the day, when your feet are the most swollen (sexy, I know); this will give you the best possible fit. And that goes for ALL shoes, really, even your every day flats and evening-out fancy shoes.

What if you're opting for yoga? No shoes required! Instead, invest in a really nice yoga mat, one that is a wee bit sticky, to help you maintain proper posture. If you will be going to a yoga studio, it's worth while to buy a mat that comes with a carrying bag; this will keep your mat clean and neatly stored between classes. Choose a color that will inspire and energize you. My yoga mat is a lovely lilac color, which I find incredibly soothing as I struggle to hold my tree pose for just ONE MORE MINUTE. Gaiam's Yoga Essentials Mat comes in "colors for every chakra" for $22.00.

Susan Wagner writes about fashion at Friday Style and The Working Closet and Fashion Find. She is seriously thinking about starting the Couch to 5K program. Maybe.