Packing the Perfect Gym Bag

Packing a gym bag doesn’t need to be a stressful experience. Whether you’re getting your sweat session in early before work, during your lunch hour, after work, or even late at night, we have the perfect guide to help athletes of all fitness levels pack a gym bag.  

What’s the importance of having a packed gym bag ready before your workout? When you pack a gym bag the night before, you’re more likely to stick with your fitness routine, because there’s no excuse not to go – your bag is packed with all your workout essentials. By packing a gym bag, you’re also setting a routine for yourself. All you have to do is grab it and go, it makes the routine easier. The first step to ensuring you have all your workout essentials with you is to pick out the perfect gym bag that aligns with your needs.  

Picking the Right Gym Bag 

When choosing the perfect gym bag, you first need to think about the style bag you like. A backpack, over-the-shoulder, hand-held – these are all examples of different bag types you can use as a gym bag. When you have your preferred style down, next think about what functions you want your gym bag to have.  Do you want one with an under-compartment for gym shoes? A headphone clip or pocket? A spot for a laptop or tablet?  Once you have your functions decided, then you can research the perfect bag for you. Our perfect gym bag is over-the-shoulder, with a shoe compartment, designated headphone spot, and a separate pocket for work clothes. Here are some examples of a gym bag that aligns with our needs. Now that you have your gym bag picked out, it’s time to pack it! 

Gym Necessities 

There are lots of different necessities to pack in a gym bag depending on when you’re working out, what exercise class or routine you’re doing that day, and what you plan to do after your workout. Here are our top ten essentials to always pack in your gym bag: 

1. Water Bottle – Staying hydrated during your workout is a must! Pack a Liquid IV or other electrolyte drink to ensure you’re staying hydrated.   

2. Gym Shoes – It’s essential to make sure you have the appropriate set of gym shoes that align with your workout. Running shoes are great for cardio exercises like the treadmill or performing sprints because they are designed with shock absorption and are meant to support forward movement. Training shoes are versatile and built to support a wide range of movements making these perfect for other types of exercises.  

3. Extra Clothes – It’s best to bring an extra set of clothes to change into after a workout. The type of clothing depends on your plans after the gym, but if you’re going for breakfast or heading back home, it can be uncomfortable to sit in sweaty gym clothes. If you’re heading to work after the gym – bring a set of work clothes. No matter your post-gym activities, it’s best to bring a change of clothes for your comfortability to continue your day.  

4. Headphones – Music can drastically impact your workout. Music stimulates the part of the brain that controls movement, so it helps your body complete exercises more efficiently. Create a workout playlist with your favorite hits to increase the productivity of your workout.  

5. Phone Charger – Always have an extra phone charger in your bag so you can stay connected throughout the day after using your phone for music during your workout.  

6. Dry Shampoo – If you’re planning to complete a workout before the workday, having dry shampoo on hand can be a lifesaver for getting ready for work at the gym. If you’re uncomfortable showering at the gym, using a dry shampoo is a must for perfecting your post-workout, workday fit.  

7. Toiletries – Pack an extra toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, and a bag of hair ties if you have longer hair that needs to be pulled back during your workout.  

8. Post-workout Snack – Having a protein-packed post-workout snack helps in recovery for the muscles worked during an exercise.   

9. Workout Tracker – Using a Fitbit, apple watch, or another electronic fitness tracker is a great way to see your progress during your fitness journey.  

10. A Lock for a Locker at the Gym – Make sure to secure your bag in a locker at the gym.  

Ready to Go!

Now that your bag is packed to help you crush your workout, you’re ready for the gym! The Center for Health & Wellbeing is home to the Crosby Wellness Center, a state-of-the-art fitness facility featuring the latest equipment, two indoor pools – a dedicated lap pool and a warmer pool for aquatics exercise and therapy, and group fitness classes like Yoga and Cycling. CHWB hosts free, open-to-the-public (no membership required) Fitness-focused Community Education Programs designed to inspire and educate participants about how fitness is a pillar in overall wellbeing. Learn more about the Fitness offerings at the Center for Health & Wellbeing HERE.