If you are passionate about fitness, it’s likely you always have a gym bag packed. While some items will rotate in and out, there are certain mainstays that you know you have to have in your bag at all times. Read on to find out the seven crucial things you must have when you go to the gym.
#1. A Towel
A towel is part of proper gym etiquette. After all, if you don’t wipe down gym equipment after you use it, you might not be welcome back. If you are also planning on showering, more than one towel should be included.
#2. A Water Bottle
Hydration is an absolute must when you are working out. That’s why it’s important to have a water bottle in your gym bag.
When you exercise, your body releases sweat as it tries to return to its normal temperature. When sweat evaporates from your skin, your body loses heat, but it also loses hydration. It’s essential to drink to replace that loss.
If you don’t hydrate during your workout, your body temperature and heart rate may rise due to your body being unable to regulate heat. You also may feel more fatigued than usual. You may not be able to think clearly and it will negatively impact your performance.
You may have your own water bottle or you may grab a bottle of water or Gatorade out of a multi-pack, but whatever route you choose, some sort of hydration is a must.
#3. A Change of Clothes
Depending on your sweat level, you may need to change clothes after a workout, or you may need to change clothes right in the middle of a workout. Whatever your needs may be, a change of clothes is necessary.
To make sure you are traveling light, a pair of leggings is recommended along with a lightweight t-shirt or top. That way you will be ready for more working out, running errands or whatever life throws your way.
#4. Gym Lock
Ugh! Don’t you hate it when you make it all the way to the gym only to realize you forgot your gym lock! Then you will either need to run back home to get it or try and work out hoping no one messes with your stuff.
To keep that from happening, make sure you always have a lock in your gym bag.
#5. Ear Buds and Tunes
Of course, you could just rely on the music playing at the gym, but then you can’t be sure they will be playing the tunes that really get your blood pumping. And even if they are playing cool tunes (and there aren’t a bunch of TV’s blaring) there’s probably a lot of talking and ambient noise that makes it difficult for you to tune in and focus.
To be sure you don’t get stuck listening to a bunch of unwanted noise, make sure to bring your ear buds and the tunes you love to listen to. This will get you focused and energized so you are ready to make the very most out of your workout.
#6. Personal Items
After the gym, you’ll probably want to hit the shower. And after the shower, well, you probably want to do a few things that will make you look presentable.
Some people are more high maintenance than others when it comes to getting ready to face the outside world but I think most will agree, deodorant is a must. Here are some other things you might want to take along.
- Brush or comb
- Dry shampoo
- Body wash
- Conditioner
- Hairstyling products
- Cosmetics
- Lotion
#7. Gym Shoes
Those that like to travel light and stay active may wear athletic sneakers to the gym to avoid having to pack them in their bags. But those that are running in from work will be sure to have a pair of sneakers in their gym bags at all times. This is another must have item required at most gyms.
These are all crucial items that we think no gym-goer should be without. But of course, everyone is different. So tell us, what do you have in your gym bag?
