What I Can’t Work Out Without: My Gym Bag Essentials
Whether you’re a regular gym-goer, have never set foot in one in your life, or are about to return after a break, having your bag packed with all the essentials can make a huge difference to your workout experience. After all, when you’re ready to open up the Sweat app and hit play on your favourite playlist, the last thing you want is to realise you forgot your headphones!
In all the years I’ve been a trainer, it’s still a question I get asked a lot - what exactly is in your gym bag? From clothes to tech to skincare, these are my must-have items for working out in the gym AND at home!
What I wear
My go-to outfit is a pair of shorts and a crop top or sports bra, and I always have a fresh pair of socks packed too. When it comes to shoes, I always train in good quality workout shoes that support my feet and ankles - that’s the most important part.
How I stay fresh
Hygiene is so important in the gym, both for you and the people around you. I pack a facial cleanser to wash my face with before and after my workout, a hydrating facial serum to apply post-workout, as well as deodorant, antibacterial wipes or hand sanitiser, and a sweat towel to stay dry - especially in the hot summer months.
If you’re using a towel to wipe down any equipment, pack two towels to avoid wiping your face with the same towel you just used for cleaning. If you’re a bit of a clean-freak like me and plan on using a mat at the gym, feel free to also take your own yoga mat. These days, most gyms require a face mask so I always have one tucked into my bag too.
How I track my workouts
For my workout itself, there are three pieces of tech I can’t live without. One is my Apple Watch, the second is my Bluetooth headphones and the third is my phone. I love using my Apple Watch to track my steps throughout the day and close my activity rings (if you know, you know), and it’s super easy to follow a workout on my watch or phone and play my own music, all using the Sweat app.
How I stay hydrated
To stay hydrated both during and after my workout, I always pack a large drink bottle. You lose a lot of fluid when you’re sweating and breathing heavily, so this is something I never want to forget. Staying hydrated and drinking lots of water is also my top tip for looking after my skin and overall health. Drink up!
So everything is easy to find and nothing falls out, I pop everything into a gym bag with different compartments and pack as much of it as I can the night before. The easier it is to just get up and go, the better!
What are your gym bag essentials? I would love to know in the comments below.
* Disclaimer: This blog post is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. The above information should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. Sweat assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article.
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