Head to the gym knowing you have every base covered by curating the perfect workout bag. Going to the gym or meeting up with your running or biking group requires a lot of stuff to be prepared. The last thing you want is to do an intense workout and forget a change of clothes or to go the entirety of your lift routine without your water bottle. To ensure your workout bag is packed and ready to go, check these following items off your list before you head out the door!
Gym Bag
Before anything else, you’re going to need a gym bag. Not all gym bags are the same. They come in different shapes and sizes, as well as colors that you can pick to match your style. If you plan to pack extra clothes, a towel, shoes, water bottles, and more, you’re going to need a large bag to fit everything. Or, if you’re simple and need only a few things to get you through your routine, a smaller gym bag will do. Are you a yogi? Store your yoga mat in a yoga gym bag that has a separate compartment just for your mat! This way, you’ll have an extra hand to spare and more freedom of movement.
Shoes
If you plan to head on over to the gym after work, you’ll be disappointed when we tell you flats or heels won’t do the trick when it comes to working out. Investing in the best cross training shoes for women or men will ensure every workout routine goes to plan. When looking for a shoe for the gym, you want one with enough cushion and support. Do you plan on focusing on aerobic workouts that boost your cardiovascular strength? Opt for running shoes that give you the support you need. Or, do you plan to do heavy lifting and squatting? Shoes with traction control and a lower heel drop will keep you planted firmly on the ground for maximum stability.
Extra Clothes
When you’re at the gym, in your yoga class, or just got back from a group run, you’re going to want extra clothes to change into. A fresh pair of clothes will not only keep you dry from all the sweat you produced, it will also reduce cases of acne and bacterial infections if you have a cut on your skin. If you’re a yoga teacher or an instructor to a workout class, packing your workout bag with multiple changes of clothes will ensure you’re clean and hygienic. As you shop for workout clothes, aim for breathable materials that wick moisture away, such as high-tech polyester garments that don’t absorb water like cotton.
Fuel
When you work out, your body releases sweat and salt. The more intense of a workout you perform, the more sweat you will produce. This means you have to properly hydrate and fuel your body before, during, and after you exercise so you don’t become dehydrated. So, opt for water or sports drinks that have electrolytes and some sodium to retain water in your body. Then, end a workout with a protein shake that helps build muscle and heal your body after intense physical activity.
Personal Care Products
After you’re done working on your flexibility and balance in your yoga class or pumping iron in the gym, you’re going to want to rinse off and get clean. The gym is prone to bacteria that can cause infections and illnesses in humans, which is why it’s always important to wipe down mats and equipment before and after you exercise. When you’re finished with your routine, showering off will ensure you stay clean and healthy. Here’s a list of must-have personal items you need in your gym bag:
- Shampoo/ Conditioner
- Body Wash
- Shower Sandals
- Towel
- Moisturizer
- Deodorant
In Conclusion
Curating the perfect workout bag doesn’t require a lot of work once you get into the routine of these. And, some of these items can stay in your bag permanently so you never forget, such as your shower sandals, deodorant, and shoes. Whether you’re training to be the next best athlete, on a mission to lose weight, or you’re trying to find your inner peace with mindful meditation, having a fully equipped gym bag will get you there.
Emily is founder of BodyShape101.com, a blog where she and her associates talk about fitness, weight loss, and yoga. Their aim is to help people like you to achieve perfect body. BodyShape101 is concentrated on exercise & fitness tips, and making the most out of it. She is also a mother of one and she tries to find balance between her passion and her biggest joy in life.
