Starting your fitness journey can be an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. As someone who has started taking the gym more seriously and trying to have a more active and healthy lifestyle, I believe that there are a few gym essentials every girl should have as they embark on this journey. Whether you’ve been going to the gym for years or just starting out, the right gear can make a world of a difference in your workouts.
1.Comfortable Workout Clothes
To do your best I believe you need to look and feel your best. That being said, choosing the right activewear is an important step to feeling comfortable at the gym. Look for breathable fabrics that will keep you cool during your workouts. Quality sports bras, leggings, shorts and t-shirts are a worthwhile investment when you plan to be going long term. Choosing clothes that allow you to move freely are essential to feeling confident in the gym. When you look good you feel good!
2.Supportive Footwear
Choosing the right footwear is especially important if you plan to be running and lifting heavy weights. Personally, when it’s leg day I wear flatter shoes like converse so it’s easier to do exercises such as barbell squats whereas on cardio days I would lean more towards running shoes when I plan to be more on the treadmill. Proper shoes for your specific activity make a complete difference and can better your overall performance. Proper shoes can also help prevent injuries when they fit well and provide ample support. When you find a pair that suits you and your gym outfit the gym becomes all the more fun!
3.Workout Accessories
To make workouts enjoyable I like to carry a few essential accessories with me such as a gym bag where I’m able to keep all my gym gear in different compartments. Having multiple compartments is an added plus to keep your sweaty outfits and shoes separated. In addition, a must have in my gym bag are my headphones. Having a great workout playlist really helps getting into the workout and makes time fly by. Having a pair of wireless headphones is also a great way to stay motivated during a workout. Gym gloves can also be your best friend at the gym when it comes to protecting your hands from blisters and improving your grip on weights. These small additions add up to make for a great workout.
4.Hydration
Keeping hydrated during a workout is essential to any gym activity. Staying hydrated keeps you up and moving, improving your energy by leaps and bounds. Having a reusable water bottle is great for the earth and easy to clean and carry. This should truly be a permanent staple in your workout routine.
5.Personal Products
Self-care before and after workouts is essential to feeling fresh at the gym. Some of these items include hair ties and headbands to help keep your hair off your face. Deodorant and even perfume is also important to stay odor free at and after the gym. Another product to add to your gym bag would be cleansing wipes. These are great to remove sweat and grime after an intense workout and keeping travel sized toiletries for a post workout shower are good to have on hand if you plan to shower at the gym.
As someone who has become more committed to my workout goals, having the right gym essentials has made my time at the gym all the better. I find that having these items further motivates me during my workouts and has enhanced my fitness journey. So, pack your gym bag with all your must haves and go achieve your fitness goals at the gym!