Fitness 8 years ago

What's in My (GYM) Bag

When I feel like my 5 Minute Fitness Commitment just isn’t going to cut it for the day, a good sweat session at the gym is in order! And,  just like the proper carry-on essentials when you travel, there are a few of things I can’t go to the gym without! So, keep scrolling to discover what my gym bag essentials are!

1. Headphones

Nothing can get you into the zone quite like some good music. If you’re on a machine like a treadmill or elliptical, a solid playlist can help you get pumped and makes the time go by faster! I used to work out with earbuds, but I found that they can fall out of my ears easily, so switching to headphones made the biggest difference (not to mention the difference in noise cancellation).

2. Reusable Water Bottle

An absolute must for working out. And, as someone who doesn’t drink much water, a cute water bottle is a lot more fun to drink out of! You’re getting your much needed hydration, and helping the environment! It’s a win-win. The #CINCteam makes sure to carry their water bottles to work too, to keep at their desks. When it’s staring you in the face, you’re much more inclined to drink. (Plus, if you can find one that’s machine washable, it makes life so much easier)!

3. Hand Sanitizer

Okay, so not to be a germaphobe or anything, but gyms can smell a little nasty at times. Even when you wipe down the machines with the handy little wipes that they provide, I feel that it’s better to be safe than sorry, right? Carrying a little bottle of hand sanitizer is a great way to help you feel clean after touching all of those weights and machines.

4. Hair Bands 

A girl can never have too many hair ties, but why is it that you always end up with just one? I try to keep as many as I can in my gym bag just in case. Though I usually go to the gym in a ponytail or a braid, having a couple in my bag to help a friend in need, or even to tighten my own hair makes hair ties a total gym bag essential (same goes for bobby pins)!

5. Shower Wipes

I discovered these shower wipes not too long ago and I knew they’d fit perfectly into my gym bag. They kind of look like the wipes I carry around for Chloe- and if you’re a mom you know how much of a lifesaver those are! The shower wipes are designed to give you a mini refresh after a workout when you don’t have enough time to shower (sometimes very necessary)!

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6. Mini Toiletries 

If you do have enough time to shower, I always carry a mini toiletry set in my gym bag. A shampoo, conditioner, body wash and body lotion in a travel size works just as well in your carry on as it does your gym bag! Nothing beats a shower at home, but if you have to shower at the gym, having your favorite products that make you feel like home works too!

7. Deodorant

This one is simple. B.O. is gross, use deodorant.

8. Dry Shampoo

Don’t feel like washing your hair? A little bit of dry shampoo can go a long way!  They smell great and can help de-grease your hair after a workout. Plus, they give your hair instant body and volume! What’s not to love?

9. Face Mist

Face mist is a purse staple, a travel essential staple, a beach bag staple and now a 100 percent gym bag staple! It’s the little burst of hydration and comfort your skin needs after a workout. And if you like taking a hot shower after a workout like I usually do, your face could definitely use a little mist of moisture.

10. Mouthwash

Last but not least, mouthwash. Just like your skin or hair could use a little refresh after a workout, who’s to say your breath doesn’t too? I found this all natural mouthwash a little while ago after a recommendation from one of the girls on the #CINCteam and I can honestly say I love it! It’s all the great things about using mouthwash (healthy smile, fresh breath) but with all the benefits of being natural.

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So there you have it! The 10 things I always carry in my gym bag. Of course, I usually have a few granola bars or almonds, and I throw in my makeup bag just in case, but these 10 items are my gym essentials for a reason. So what’s in YOUR gym bag? Let me know below!

Credits:

Photography by Drew Scott