As spring break came to an end I was packing my bags for school, ready to get back to the grind. When it came to my gym bag, there were many items that were a necessity for me to pack. Here is a few of the things that I use time and time again – from the smallest device to the thickest yoga mat, none of my workouts would be complete without my essentials.
May I speak for all of us when I say that socks can be annoying to mess with during a workout, as you’re constantly having to pull them up just to have them slide back down into our shoes. Let’s face it, socks can be a menace when you’re on the go. One of the most innovative things that I have seen to combat this problem is socks that prevent from sliding down when you exercise. I have seen a lot of creative ways to stop this from happening, but now you can buy socks that have a tab at the top that stop them from falling! This is easily my favorite fitness product on the market right now!
Next, we’ve all heard about the Fitbit but do we know why they are so popular? They are one of the easiest ways to track how effective your workout is, among other uses. A Fitbit allows you to see your heartbeat, which is beneficial when trying to keep a steady heartbeat during your workout. What else is cool about it? It has the ability to track your sleep. As a college student, I strive to get as much sleep as I can, though it doesn’t always work out that way. Knowing how much sleep I get makes my Fitbit essential to my daily life style. As great as FitBits are, they can be pricey. Though, don’t let that stop you from tracking your fitness and sleep. Consider trying an app that will do all these things as well.
Another product I always pack is an armband. This crafty device has the ability hold your phone during your workout. I used to worry about dropping my phone during my workout but I don’t anymore! Armbands keeps your phone secured to your arm and still makes it easily accessible if you need to text, change the song, etc. They come in all different sizes and colors!
Next, a simple and much needed product is a water bottle. A good water bottle can make or break any workout. I like to keep my water cold, so I have a Hydro Flask. It keeps my water cold for 8 or more hours at a time, which makes it great for the gym but also during the day. Another tip, get a water bottle that fits into cup holders you may use at the gym. If you’re planning to use the elliptical but find out your water bottle doesn’t fit it can be a total bummer. It’s important to stay hydrated even when you’re not working out, so try taking your water bottle with you to class. I would suggest buying at least a 16oz bottle so you don’t have to fill up as often.
The last essential in my gym bag is a thick yoga mat. I use one every time I go to the gym. Though many think these are only used for yoga, I use them for ab workouts as well as stretching before and after a workout. I tend to go with a thicker mats to cushion my back, making it more comfortable than the ground. If a mat isn’t in the budget, Recreation Services offers mats just as good as my own! I think everyone should find a mat that works for them, both for comfortability and workability.
These are some of my own favorite essentials to pack for the gym. What are yours? Let us know what you pack in your gym bag.