Packing a gym bag is a very popular obsession for anyone who goes to the gym daily. You may have a pre-packed workout bag in your car or bedroom that you can quickly grab and go. Some gym-goers even have multiple bags prepared for various types of workouts. However, it’s not uncommon to forget a crucial piece of gym equipment when traveling or visiting a gym other than your own. Furthermore, many goods given for free at your gym (such as towels and sponsored sports drinks) may not be available elsewhere. To avoid catastrophes, here’s a list of “must-haves” for any gym bag, as well as a few luxury goods to keep on hand just in case.
Gym Sneakers
Your gym sneakers may appear to be one of the prominent items in your gym. Still, it’s crucial to remember the specific sort of sneakers you’ll need for each session. For example, you don’t want to show up for a tennis lesson only to discover that you forgot your racket. Of course, there are terrific all-purpose sports shoes to wear to the gym, but you’ll gain more from matching the proper shoe to the suitable activity. Having multiple pairs of athletic shoes to rotate will also give you plenty of time to properly dry each pair out between exercises. Rotating workout sneakers will help you avoid unpleasant foot odors.
Gym Bag
Before you spend the time packing a gym bag, examine whether the bag will meet your demands. It makes no sense to carry a too large bag or to try to cram everything into a tiny bag. The right-sized gym bag will hold everything you need and be portable enough to travel out of town. Consider purchasing a bag with separate wet and dry compartments if you intend to shower at the gym (including one for your cell phone and keys). The strap should be adjustable and suitable so that it rests gently on your shoulder without becoming annoying. To avoid mildew and musty odors, choose washable and breathable bags.
Sweat Towel
Several gyms make it mandatory for you to carry a towel on the gym floor for healthy hygiene purposes. Even if you don’t sweat much, the next person using the equipment may sense any moisture left behind. Using a gym towel is not only hygienic but also polite. Cotton towels are typically preferred at the gym since the fibers are incredibly absorbent and dry quickly. Microfiber towels are also helpful because they dry quickly.
Most gyms provide clean towels for members to use, saving you room in your bag. Some folks, however, prefer to use their own towels. Bring some hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes to clean off equipment if you’re worried about the visible sweat and germs left behind by your fellow gym-goers. Most gyms also provide antibacterial sprays and towels to clean equipment before and after usage.
Athletic Attire
Nothing is more infuriating than forgetting a vital piece of workout equipment. A sockless workout can transform an otherwise productive workout into a recipe for blisters and chafing. Depending on your training, you may need to bring the following items: clean underwear and/or a sports bra, a new pair of gym socks, a swimsuit, a swim cap, and of course, your favorite workout top and leggings or preferred bottoms.
Your Favorite Water Bottle
Nobody enjoys queuing at the water fountain, especially after a hard weightlifting workout or HIIT workout. However, staying hydrated is made easier with a reusable water bottle. Some bottles have the ability to keep beverages chilled for up to 24 hours and 48 hours with ice. Bottle prices typically vary from under $10 to well over $50. If you want to use a reusable plastic bottle, look for one made of non-toxic bisphenol A (BPA) plastic. Also, condensation should be avoided in newer, vacuum-sealed water bottles.
Earphones
Some people use music to help them get through challenging workouts and pace their workouts. Bring your cell phone or iPod if you don’t like the music at your gym. Don’t forget to bring your earphones, and make sure your smartphone has enough battery life to last the duration of your workout. You’ll also want to make sure you have a secure way to transport your device and keep it dry while exercising. The same is true for your earphones. It is often advantageous to choose a high-quality pair that is both wireless and sweat-resistant. In addition, look for music-playing devices or accessories developed for sports, as they are more durable.
Toiletries
No matter what gym or workout you choose, hygiene is essential. Aside from cleaning up after a strenuous workout, you should also avoid athlete’s foot and other frequent locker room diseases. Bath towels, soap, hairbrushes, shower sandals, deodorant, extra underwear, menstrual necessities, shampoo, and conditioner are among the “must-have” personal care items. It is often beneficial to have a specialized gym travel bag to hold your personal care supplies. If you forget or need to restock, lotions and shampoos are available in travel-size sizes at most drugstores.
Food
Keep energy or protein bars and a piece of fruit like banana or apple in your gym bag for a pre-or post-workout snack. A high-carb energy bars are ideal if you don’t have time to refuel before your workout. If you won’t be able to have a meal soon, consider a high-protein bar to feed your muscles after an exercise. You can also make your favorite protein shake as a meal replacement after a workout.
Membership ID
Many “big name” gyms no longer require you to show your membership card to get access. Many employ an app, your phone number, or a fingerprint scan instead. If your gym still requires a card or key fob, keep it in your workout bag. Some cards are fashioned like tags and may be easily attached to a keychain or affixed to your purse. Regular-sized cards can be stored in the pocket of a workout bag. If you use separate bags for different workouts but require a card for all of your activities, keeping your card in your wallet may be more accessible.
Kim’s Final Thoughts…
Your gym bag and the items inside are definitely essential to a great workout! However, realizing you left behind one of the necessities in your gym bag can be stressful and annoying. To avoid the chaos before a workout, fill your gym bag up with all of your favorite necessities the night before.
