Getting to the gym is one of the easiest ways to get your workout in. However, we can all agree that it’s essential to get the absolute most out of your time there. Before you head out, make sure to pack the right items that can help you feel confident before, during, and after your workout. Here are the essentials everyone should have in their gym bag.
Refillable Water Bottle
It's crucial to stay hydrated during workouts. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water by using a reusable water bottle. There are often water stations around gyms where you can fill up cold, filtered water and it will save you money by not continuously buying plastic bottles.
Proper Shoes
Depending on what type of workout you're doing, you're going to want to pack the correct type of shoes for the job. If you know you will be doing heavy cardio like running on the treadmill or track, you want to have comfortable running shoes. In the same vein, there are also shoes designed for weightlifting, rock climbing, and more, and you should strive to have a pair ready to swap out for each activity.
Combination Lock
Most gyms offer lockers where you can safely store your valuables. If you want the comfort of knowing your stuff is safe while you're on the gym floor, you should bring a combination lock to secure your stuff.
Shower Necessities
Whether you're about to go back to work, go off to an event, or don't like the feeling of being sweaty, you might want to use the showers provided at your gym. You will want to pack your favorite brands of shampoo, conditioner, and soap. Finding travel sizes for each of those essentials can save you additional space and keep your bag from getting weighed down. You might also want to consider bringing shower slippers in case you're worried about sanitation.
Antimicrobial Towel and Mask
You might want to consider using an antimicrobial face mask or an antimicrobial towel to clean after yourself in public gyms. Antimicrobial fabrics keep undesirable microbes such as bacteria, mildew, mold, and viruses out of the textiles. Otherwise, those microbes can easily accumulate while sweating and interacting with equipment used by others.
Earbuds
Nothing helps getting you pumped up for a workout more than having the right tunes. Be sure to have a pair of headphones always packed in your gym bag to help keep you focused and motivated. If you don't have a designated pair for the gym, make sure you are throwing the ones you use in your bag so you don't get stuck listening to whatever radio station they might have playing in the gym.
Athletic Clothes
When ranking the essentials everyone should have in their gym bags, workout clothes are at top of the list. You don't want to get stuck working out in your work uniform or collared shirt and slacks. You should make sure you pack a clean workout top and bottom, any headgear you like to use, and a clean pair of socks. If you know you will be showering, don't forget a change of underwear and a towel too.
