Your gear will get you there! We’re talking about getting you to your fitness goals! Whether it’s a yoga session or group fitness classes Sydney locals will tell you that having the right shoes and even snacks does matter.
After all, why not make tough exercising a little easier on yourself? Even if you’ve been going to the gym for years, perhaps you haven’t heard of the latest tips and tech to optimise your workout?
Here’s all you need to add to your bag before your next fitness session.
Best Gym Bag Accessories for 2023
The list below applies to most gym scenarios. Of course, there may be slight differences between a bag packed for weight lifting and one for reformer pilates Sydney locals love to go to. But in most cases, the items below will get you off to a good start.
So, if you’re new to the gym environment, feel confident that you can optimise your first workout when you have the following.
Exercise-suitable Clothing
You’ll be surprised how many people experience a gym session as much more exhausting than it should be, just because they’re wearing the wrong, uncomfortable clothes. Rather spend a little more and get clothing designed for exercising, rather than using cheap knock-offs or pulling your oldest shirt from the cupboard.
Tops & Bottoms
To make yourself feel good, buy gym clothing in your favourite colours but always make sure the fabric is breathable. Also look for features like ‘lightweight’ and ‘moisture wicking’ as this helps keep you comfortable so you can focus and exercise for longer.
Shoes
Of course, comfort is a major factor in picking out shoes like sneakers. In addition, ensure it offers proper support and is appropriate for the type of exercise you plan on doing. Shoes for weightlifting differ from those suitable for running or Pilates.
Pair your shoes with comfortable, breathable socks.
Headgear
A priority with picking out your outfits should be managing your comfort and limiting unnecessary frustration. Therefore, keep your hair out of your eyes with items like a headband or even a hat if it won’t make you sweat too much.
Towel X2
Every gym bag needs at least two towels:
- The first is for your exercise session. By wiping away sweat you’re keeping yourself comfortable and also keeping your skin clear so your pores don’t get clogged as easily.
- You need a second towel for the change room. Even if you don’t shower on site, you may want to change clothes or simply wash your face before heading home. By having a clean towel on hand you avoid rubbing impurities from your sweaty gym towel onto your skin.
Water Bottle
If you’re exercising properly, you’ll get thirsty. Consider these facts about water bottles when planning your gym bag:
- Taking your own bottle saves money, because you won’t be tempted to buy bottled water on site.
- Having water on hand removes the temptation of drinking smoothies or juice. They can be healthy but often also contain lots of sugar.
- By using a bio-degradable bottle and not buying bottled water, your gym sessions support a sustainable lifestyle.
Enquire about the size of bottle holders on gym machines, so you can buy accordingly.
The RIGHT Snacks
You may get hungry at the gym and there’s nothing wrong with having a snack. But, it must be something that will give you energy instead of making you feel lethargic. Some expert suggestions:
- Protein or granola bars
- Banana
- Yoghurt
- Sandwich with peanut butter
- Crackers (whole grain)
Items for Personal Care
If you do take showers at the gym, take bathroom essentials like soap and shampoo, so you feel refreshed when you’re done. This also means you’re ready for the next activity on your schedule so gym sessions become a normal part of your day, instead of being an obstacle that keeps you from getting work done. This way, you can have workouts on more days of the week.
Comfortable Headphones
Noticed that we mentioned ‘comfortable’ in the heading here?
Working out with your favourite music setting the pace and helping you focus can make a workout much more dynamic. Simply make sure you pick a set of headphones that won’t distract you. Even while moving they shouldn’t hurt your ears or keep falling off.
Do you prefer wireless, on-ear or over-ear designs?
These days you also get headphones that are sweatproof—ideal for gym—and with noise cancelling features you can limit distractions even more.
Last Tip: Invest in a Quality Gym Bag from the Get-go
So where will you place all the essential gym bag items listed above?
Rather avoid using that old bag stuffed at the back of your closet. You’re very likely to get irritated after an intense session if you rummage inside but can’t find your keys or snacks. Don’t take the risk of something as simple as your bag frustrating you and ruining the gym experience.
A practical gym bag, designed with multiple pockets, can have dedicated spaces for everything you need to get to in a rush. It also helps to keep your personal items away from your smelly gym clothes after you’ve changed.
Now, don’t forget your membership card—grab it and go get fit.