Everything You Should Pack for the Gym Because You Probably Live There Now

Since we're at the start of a new year, there are a lot of us out there who are spending a lot more time in the gym than they usually do. And hey, good for you, if you are! But if you are one of those newly minted gym rats, you might not have your routine down pat just yet. That might mean your workout routine, but it might also be how you prep to go the gym in the first place. You know you have to bring your house keys, gym card (or phone if you scan in with an app), and a water bottle. But depending on your game plan, you might need to bring a change of clothes, extra gear, a snack—it all depends on new york fashion

To make sure you're all prepared for gym time before, during, and after, we made a list of suggestions of essentials to consider. Take a look below and you'll be set for your workout.

A Gym Bag

First things first, well, you're going to need a gym bag. While I've used whatever tote bag I had on hand in the past, when I got a real gym bag (with pockets!), I felt so much more organized rather than just throwing everything into a jumbled abyss. I still use my tote bag if I'm traveling light, but when I am going somewhere afterward or doing a morning workout before heading to the office, I bring my gym bag to make sure I have all my essentials to get ready.

This one has a separate shoe compartment to stash your dirty sneakers after. The size makes it good for quick trips, too.

 

Big bonus: This bag also converts into a backpack.

If you prefer a backpack, this one will fit all your essentials. It comes with exterior and interior pockets for your water bottle, wallet and keys, even your laptop.

A Water Bottle

Bring your own reusable bottle—you'll be saving yourself some money and also doing your part to reduce single-use plastics. Win-win!

I love Hydro Flasks because they keep your drinks cold for a long time (24 hours to be exact), which is just so refreshing after a grueling workout.

 

You can't go wrong with a S'well bottle. The slim design makes it easy to stash in just about any cup holder on a gym machine.

This water bottle does double-duty because it's also a foam roller. We have no words for how genius this is.

Headphones

Unless you're heading to a class with an instructor who has curated a motivating playlist, you're going to want to bring your own headphones so you can listen to whatever you want while you're working out on a machine or on the floor. Splurge for some Bluetooth-capable ones so you don't have to deal with wires.

Just go ahead and splurge for the new AirPods Pro. You can customize the fit, it is sweat-resistant, and it's noise-cancelling (perfect for getting in the zone).

These earbuds are specifically made for workouts, and are sweat-proof and lightweight. You can play them for up to five hours each charge, so you're all set for that long run.

The good thing about the cord on these is they have magnets so you can wear them around your neck when you're not using them.

Towel

Some gyms don't provide towels, or maybe you just want to use your own. Either way, it's helpful to pack a towel to wipe off sweat during or after your workout, or to use it on a gym mat to avoid extra slippage.

With over 3000 ratings and 4.5 stars on Amazon, you know this fast-drying and super-absorbent towel will come in handy at the gym.

Readmore: I Tried HIIT Workouts for 30 Days Straight, and the Results Were Wild