It’s that time again when we set goals to begin a workout program. We want and hope that we will get familiar with the gym- for a powerful workout session and hit the weights. As it stands, that is half the battle- well, the other half is packing the perfect gym bag to ensure that you make the most of your time in the gym.
Below is an easy cheat-sheet of what you should always have in your gym bag that will prepare you for both the expected and the unexpected.
1. Sneakers
Gym shoes might seem like an obvious item to pack, but there is nothing worse than getting to the gym and realizing you forgot to pack your shoes, so be sure to pack a pair. Cross –fit shoes are essential for working out because they are designed for cross-training, weight lifting, indoor rock climbing and running on the treadmill.
2. Gym Clothes
Your gym clothes don’t have to be too complicated or expensive. As long as your workout top/ sports-bra, bottoms- which may include sweatpants or leggings are breathable and comfortable you’ll be fine. Your clothes should be appropriately fitted because you wouldn’t want your low-hanging pants to slip when you’re doing your lunges or top to ride up and fall over your face when you bend over to do a hand-stand. For colder months pack a track-suit or hoodie especially if you plan on heading out for brunch with your gym clothes.
3. Reusable water bottle
Hydration is essential when working out, so make sure to keep a bottle of water close by, during your workout. You may want to invest in a good reusable water bottle so you can refill it as often and avoid having to hop off the treadmill mid-workout or buying overpriced water at the gym. Pick yourself a reusable bottle that you can slip on the side pocket or clip to your bag- and one that comes with a removable infuser so you can add cucumber slices or other fruits for a refreshing post-workout hydration.
4. Towel
Always ensure that you have a clean, fresh towel stashed in your bag to wipe up sweat from your body. Even if you don’t overly sweat, some moisture may be left behind after using the equipment, so it’s hygienic and healthy to use a cotton towel because it absorbs sweat big time. As much as you don’t want to sit in someone’s sweat on a bench press and you have to clean your workstation before using it, nobody wants to train in yours either.
5. Pair of Bluetooth ear-buds or wireless headphones
No workout is complete without music and it helps to get you in the zone and pace out your workout. So make sure to keep Bluetooth headphones or ear-buds in your bag for the ultimate convenience and then you can easily tune in your favourite podcast or playlist shuffle while you work out. Pro tip: be sure that your device has enough battery life.
6. Mini first aid kit
Accidents happen when we least expect them to, but when you’re in a room surrounded by heavyweights those odds become even higher. Keep bandages, band-aids and deep heat ointment (to relieve yourself from muscle aches) in your bag at all times.
There you have it- the perfectly packed gym bag checklist to make your workout experience better.
