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Whether you hit the gym before or after work, during your lunch break, or later in the evening, a successful gym outing can depend on what you did – or didn’t – bring with you.
While the specific contents of your gym bag are going to differ wildly depending on your personal preferences, when you work out, and what type of workout you’re doing, there are a few basic that should be in everyone’s bag.
Finding the Right Gym Bag
When you become a gym goer, you’re going to need a bag. There are two basic things to consider when it comes to finding the right one:
1. The Locker Situation
Depending on the gym, some have lockers that are huge and can fit any size bag. Others have much smaller lockers. The size of your gym bag is going to depend on the size of your storage!
Something else to consider is how you’re going to ensure your gym bag stays safe and secure. Some gyms provide pre-programmed locks while others require you to bring your own.
2. Your Gym Bag Items
What needs to go in your bag is going to also dictate the size and functionality of your gym bag. Do you need a few easy-access pockets? A mesh water bottle holder? More than one compartment? What about some zippered spaces to keep your keys, wallet, or jewellery?
8 Gym Bag Essentials
Now that you have the perfect gym bag, it’s time to decide what goes in it.
While the contents of your gym bag are going to differ, there are nine basic items I consider to be must-haves for any gym bag.
1. Flip Flops
Are you showering after a workout? Many gyms have showers available to use after your workout and it always wise to protect your feet in any public shower area with flip flops!
2. Towel
A towel is one of those must-have gym items. Even if you aren’t making use of the showers, you’ll need a towel to wipe your sweat away afterwards. You may also prefer to workout with a towel handy, in case you want to lay it down underneath you when using the mats.
3. Post Workout Snack
After a hard workout your body is going to need fuel. Having a healthy snack on hand can curb cravings until you are home and can make a proper meal.
4. Water Bottle
Having a water bottle with you during your workout will help keep you hydrated, which is so important when exercising.
5. Music Device / Earphones
You might like to crank up the tunes and power through your workout. Or, perhaps you just want to tune out to a great cooking show. Either way, make sure you have your music device and earphones with you to help you stay motivated!
6. Jacket
If you’re in a cool area, you’ll want a clean jacket or shirt to change into, especially if you’re a sweater!
7. Watch
Keep a watch on hand. Not only will it help you keep time but you can also use it as a stop watch or heart rate monitor.
8. Gloves, Wrist Wraps, and Weightlifting Belt
These particular items aren’t going to be for everyone, but if your main focus is lifting weights, they are must-haves. Gloves protect your hands from slipping and blisters, while wrist wraps support your wrists when gripping heavy weights. Weightlifting belts are used to protect your lower back when attempting movements like deadlifts.