Summer is here and everyone is hitting up the gym! That is why I thought throwing up a post all about creating the perfect gym bag would be a great way to help YOU also stay motivated.
I have been an avid gym-er (is that a word? I think not. But, we will go with it!) for about 3 years now and take so much pride in having a well put together gym bag. My gym bag is always packed so that I am able to just grab it and go whenever I need. Over the years I have experimented with what I should have in my gym bag and since going for more of a minimalist approach with virtually every aspect of my life I think I have finally found what the absolute essentials are for me, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
Let’s start with the very basic . . . the gym bag itself. I have had my bag for probably close to 6 years now and it has been well loved, to say the least. You would think I’d invest in a new one at this point since it has been so well loved but the good ol’ green NIKE is still doing the job just fine.
When choosing a gym bag make sure it is one that suits your style of working out. Some people prefer backpacks if they have a hefty load to carry with them such as heavy shoes, ankle weights, squat belt. Whereas others just need something that they can attach their yoga mat to. This is all dependent on your style of workout and ultimately your fitness goals!
Now that we have the most obvious out of the way let’s talk interior.
On the feet
The first thing I always check for before running out the door is a good pair of gym shoes and socks. I always, always, always keep extra socks in my gym bag because no one wants to wear the same pair out of the gym!
WATER
Hydration is key to a solid workout and well . . . not passing out on the stair master. Keeping a water bottle or shaker cup right inside your bag at all times will help you drink more water than you would if you had to run to the fountain constantly. If you are someone who really can’t stand to drink boat loads of water try using BCAAs to fuel your workout. Seriously, they add great flavour and aid in muscle repair. These are my current favourite are by Quench!
Food/Fuel
I really believe the best food to fuel your body with pre and post workout is whole nutritious food but I totally understand being in a pinch also. That is why I love to keep protein powder, easy to snack on bars, and food like nuts, seeds, and fruit in my bag as well. This will help you train optimally and will aid in a better day as you will be able to feed your hunger.
Toiletries
Being a girl this cannot be overlooked! I keep a few things in my bag at all times such as extra tampons, deodorant, hair ties, and makeup wipes. I have towel service at the gym I go to but if you don’t you might find it helpful to throw a small towel in your bag, and hey, even if you don’t use it to shower you can use it right in the gym when lying on mats or benches!
Accessories
I covered the very basics above but we all need to add a little extra sometimes. Accessories I use for the gym include: headphones, a lock to make sure you can keep all my goodies safe, and I personally ALWAYS have my hip circle bands in my bag which I use every leg day!
There are the most basic essentials for the gym! Happy lifting, spinning, running, yoga-ing, whatever you do!
-jaide