Approximately 45 million Americans have gym memberships. A whopping 80 percent of them do not use that membership, though.
Are you part of this group? Are you looking to change your ways and become a gym junkie? If so, you need to make sure you have the right gear at the ready.
Not sure what equipment you need to have before you hit the gym?
Listed below are nine gym essentials everyone ought to have before they head out for their workout.
Keep these in your bag at all times so you’re always prepared!
1. Gym Shoes
One of the most important items to keep in your gym bag is a pair of shoes that will work best for your preferred type of workout.
If you’re going to be running on the treadmill, a good pair of running shoes will help to provide with the support you need. If you’re planning on taking a class or doing a workout that involves a lot of jumping around, a pair of cross-training shoes is a better fit.
For weightlifting, you don’t want shoes that have a lot of padding. This can throw off your balance and make it harder for you to remain steady when you start lifting heavier weights. Instead, wear a pair of shoes with a flat sole (lots of lifters swear by Converse).
2. Socks
What good are your workout shoes if you forget your socks?
If you’re coming to the gym from work or another activity and don’t put your shoes and socks on beforehand, it’s a good idea to keep a spare pair of socks in your gym bag.
That way, you’ll be able to stay cool and comfortable during your workout and won’t be risking an injury by working out in your street shoes (remember, too, that some gyms also won’t allow you out on the floor if you’re not wearing proper shoes).
3. Headphones
If you don’t like the music that the gym blasts through its speakers, or if you want to deter people from coming up and chatting with you while you’re working out, it’s a good idea to pack a pair of headphones in your gym bag.
If you have a tendency to forget to charge your headphones, bring a charger, too. You might also want to pack a pair of backup, wired headphones. That way, you’ll never be without your music even if something goes wrong with your other pair.
4. Deodorant
Nobody wants to be that person at the gym. You know, the one you can smell coming from all the way across the floor.
To avoid being a sweaty, smelly mess at the gym (and after), it’s best to keep deodorant in your gym bag. Apply it before your workout and after to ensure you always smell as fresh and clean as possible.
5. Water Bottle
Hydration is essential during any workout. If you don’t want to find yourself waiting in line to drink murky gym water from a fountain that looks like it’s never been cleaned, go ahead and pack your own water bottle.
If you like to mix up a post-workout shake or special pre-workout drink, pack a separate water bottle for that. This will save you from those nasty aftertastes that often accompany protein and pre-workout powders.
6. Towel
A towel is a great thing to have in your gym bag even if you’re not planning to shower at the gym.
Having a towel on hand will help you stay dry and keep the sweat out of your eyes while you workout.
It can also serve as a nice barrier between you and the bench or mat if you don’t want to get it all sweaty (or risk lying in a pool of someone else’s sweat).
7. Workout Clothes
Make sure you have a good pair of workout clothes in your gym bag, too.
Even if you like to dress for your workout at home before you head to the gym, it never hurts to have a spare top and pair of shorts or pants in your bag.
That way, if something goes wrong or if you just don’t feel great in what you’re wearing, you can make a quick change and get on with your workout.
As with workout shoes, be sure to pack workout clothes that make sense for your specific workout type. Weightlifting clothing brands often have different styles and types of material than running clothing brands, after all.
8. Cleansing Wipes
For those who don’t have time for a thorough shower after their workout, cleansing wipes are a lifesaver.
Keep a package in your gym bag to freshen up before you head back to the office or run off to take care of some errands.
It’s best to look for wipes that are unscented so that you don’t have to worry about irritating your skin post-workout.
9. Gym Lock
In a perfect world, you’d be able to leave your belongings unattended in the locker room and feel confident that no one would touch them. That’s not the world we live in, though.
Unless you want to be one of those people who haul their gym bag with them from station to station during their workout, it’s a good idea to pack a lock in your bag. That way, you can secure your gym bag while you workout and know that it’s safe and secure.
Pick Up These Gym Essentials Today
Your gym bag doesn’t have to be overflowing with stuff in order for you to get in a good workout. There are some gym essentials that everyone ought to keep on them, though.
These seven essentials will help you ensure you get the most out of every workout you do. Do you need to pick any of them up before your next training session?
If so, now’s the time to head to the store or place your online order. That way, you won’t be able to use lack of preparation as an excuse when your next workout rolls around.
Are you looking for more fitness or workout advice? If so, be sure to visit the Workouts for Weight Loss section of our site today for more helpful posts!
