Heading to the gym? Proper preparation will save you on those mornings when you only have a minute to throw things together before running out the door. Over years of working out, I have become an expert on keeping a practical gym bag. Here are the 7 items that I always keep on hand.
#1) Proper Shoes.
Everyone has different feet, and having shoes with appropriate stability and support are vital to avoid injuries, and maintain proper joint mechanics. If you aren’t sure what type of shoe is right for your foot, I suggest taking a trip to a local specialty running shoe store that will fit you with shoes that are catered to the specific needs of your foot, or check out my other blog: Running Shoes for Dummies.
#2) Fitness Tracker/HR Monitor.
Without a fitness tracker, you can still workout, but you will miss out on all the cool features and info that it provides. Using PK Fitness and a HR monitor also let’s you know if you are working too hard, or not hard enough to obtain health benefits. These are advantages you won’t want to miss out on!
#3) Water Bottle.
Hydration is a must, especially during longer workouts. You never know whether a water fountain will be an option. Even if it is, water fountains are notorious for being covered in bacteria from other gym users mouths and hands- play it safe and bring along your own bottle!
#4) Headphones/Charger.
Music isn’t everything, but it can certainly brighten up a workout! Make a playlist you can keep on your phone, and throw an extra pair of headphones and a charger into your gym bag so you won’t ever have to miss out on your favorite jams.
#5) Snack.
A lack of ‘fuel’ in the tank is probably my most common excuse for skipping a workout. Whether you make impromptu plans, get stuck in traffic, or your workout just feels terrible: snacks are always a good idea.
#6) Shower stuff.
In order to cater to your ever-changing plans, it’s nice to have the option of showering after a workout. While you don’t want to be lugging around your entire toiletry cabinet, you can probably handle a few travel size items. A few of my go-to’s are 2-in-1 shampoo, body wash, deodorant, and face wipes.
#7) Something warm to wear.
After sitting in sweat, or hopping out of the shower your body temperature can drop quickly. Having a sweatshirt ready to go, can save you discomfort on the trip home.
Wherever you plan on working out, give the trip some thought before heading out the door. You don’t want to have a bad experience; or worse, have to sit out of a workout because you forgot something!