Gym Bag Overhaul: What Workout Gear to Take
August 14, 2014
They say that motivation is the key element to getting yourself on the path to being healthy. So is actually packing that gym bag you thought was so cute six months ago. What you put into your gym bag has an effect on your workout experience almost as much as how you fuel your body pre-workout. Here are some key essentials and a list of things you can leave at home.
Gym Bag Essentials
If you are headed to the gym and in street clothes you’ll need to pack: Sneakers that relate to your workout, water bottle, lycra shorts or pants, sports bra or tank with built-in bra, towel, wick-away t-shirt, elastics or hair bands and socks.
Don’t forget the all-important set of tunes. Using an mp-3 player while running on the treadmill or using the elliptical can help keep the pace. If anything, the headphones will work on the built-in televisions that are on the equipment. We all need a little time to catch up on our latest HGTV shows!
Workout specific items you might need: yoga mat, swim goggles and cap, weight-lifting gloves.
If you are already dressed for your workout and you will be showering at the facility then an extra set of clothes, shoes, flip flops for the shower, underwear and additional toiletries is needed.
Toiletries & Extras
Packing up toiletries can feel a bit like packing extras and you want to keep them at a minimum. No one wants their gym tote to be an additional workout. Unless you rent a locker at the gym or go on a daily basis small, travel-sized toiletries are your best bet.
Must-Have Toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, body wash, comb or brush, and deodorant.
Extras: razor, makeup, hair dryer, body lotion and face wipes, hair products.
Bag It
The bag is actually the last thing you need to take a look at when packing for the gym. Is it large enough to carry a towel, extra change of clothes, shoes and toiletries? Do you need to include a hair dryer or snacks too? Think about what is absolutely essential for your gym time and lay it all out. Once the necessary items are in front of you, the size of the bag can be determined. Then it is all about finding a good waterproof style that works for you. From yoga mat-carrying bags to more high-end structured looks there is a something for every gym rat out there.
