Gym Bag Checklist: What To Pack In Your Gym Bag?
Wondering what should go into your gym bag? Are workout clothes sufficient, or is there more to remember? Shoes, anyone? As a personal trainer, I know that it can be hard to remember everything you need for a trip to the gym. You’ve got your snacks and water bottle — now what else do you throw into that bag of yours? To lend a hand, I put together a gym bag checklist that guarantees no vital items slip your mind.
Before you head to the gym, look at the following items. They’re all worth considering for your gym bag packing list.
Gym Bag Checklist: The Things You Need For The Gym
1) Gym Bag Essentials
Before you even start thinking about packing workout-specific gear, let’s cover the basics that you should always have in your gym bag:
Workout Clothes
It goes without saying that appropriate workout attire should be the first thing you should pack. Choose comfortable, moisture-wicking clothing that allows for ease of movement.
And don’t forget to include a change of clothes in your workout bag if you plan on freshening up after your workout.
Water Bottle
Hydration is vital for a successful workout. Fill up a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, minimize waste, and keep your energy levels up throughout your session.
Towel
A towel is essential for wiping off sweat and other moisture, as well as for placing on workout benches or other equipment for hygiene. A quick-drying microfiber towel works best because it’s lightweight and easy to pack when traveling.
Snacks
To fuel your body before or after your workout, keep a nutritious snack on hand. Think granola bars, protein shakes, coffee, or a piece of fruit.
2) Workout Gear
To optimize your workout routine, ensure you have the appropriate gear that suits your fitness regimen:
Shoes
Invest in proper athletic footwear that provides the necessary support for your chosen activities. Different sports or workouts may require specific shoe types.
For instance, you’ll need weightlifting shoes for weight lifting and treadmill running shoes for treadmills, so choose accordingly.
Smartwatch or Heart Rate Monitor
Your smartwatch can serve as a gym timer. And your heart rate monitor will help you avoid overexerting yourself, especially when using cardio machines.
Weightlifting Belt
Weightlifting belts are gym bag necessities for serious lifters. They provide crucial lumbar support and stability, allowing you to put your maximum effort into your lifts and reduce your risk of injury.
Lifting Straps
When it comes to intense weightlifting, you need all the support you can get. Lifting straps can be an essential asset to your workout gear, offering extra grip and stability during heavy lifts.
Knee Wraps or Sleeves
Knee wraps or compression sleeves are a must-have to protect your knees from injury and pain. When you are training hard, it’s easy for your body to take a beating. Knee wraps and sleeves can help reduce the impact of heavy squats or lunges without restricting movement.
Resistance Bands
Versatile and effective, resistance bands are fantastic tools for adding resistance to your body weight exercises. They are portable, easy to use, and offer endless possibilities, so they should have a spot inside your gym bag.
Chalk
Particularly beneficial for lifters, chalk improves grip by absorbing sweat and moisture. Chalk (liquid or powdered) can help you lift more comfortably and safely.
3) Gym Accessories
Enhance your gym experience with these practical accessories:
Headbands, Elastics, or Hats
Keep your hair out of your face with headbands or elastics. Hats also provide sun protection if you’re engaging in outdoor activities.
Headphones
Music is a great way to keep you energized and motivated during your workout. Invest in a pair of headphones or earphones that fit your ears well. And make sure they don’t fall out or get in the way of your movements.
Phone
Your phone is essential for listening to music, tracking workouts, and staying connected. Make sure it’s fully charged or bring a portable charger.
4) Hygiene Essentials
After your invigorating workout, I’m sure you’ll want to freshen up. Be sure to include these hygiene essentials:
Toiletries
Pack travel-sized toiletries, such as body wash, shampoo, and deodorant, to help you feel refreshed post-workout.
Comb
Keep your hair neat and tangle-free with a compact comb or brush. You also need these if you take a shower at the gym.
Cleansing Wipes or Sanitizers
Keep a pack of cleansing wipes or sanitizers to clean your hands after working out. It’s also a good idea to bring wet wipes if you need an extra refresher during the day.
Conclusion
It’s unrealistic to expect yourself to have the basics down pat every time. That would, frankly, be overwhelming for most people.
However, by being mindful of your needs – and by keeping this gym bag checklist handy – you can come close to ensuring you always have what you need to power through your workouts comfortably.
Personal preferences aside, you can’t go wrong by packing the items on this list.
If you don’t want to take all this stuff to the gym, consider just building your own gym. Refer to 12 Half Garage Gym Ideas as a guide.
About The Author
Inge van Haselen is a personal trainer, health coach, and home gym owner. She has been coaching hundreds of clients for over 17 years in her gym. It’s her passion to help you have the best home gym for your needs, so you can be in the best shape of your life.