Things you take to the Gym: Essentials for Working Out

If you are a beginner at going to the gym, or simply want some advice on items or supplements you should have, this will be a good article for you.

There is no absolute requirement of what to take to the gym, however some items surely make going to the gym easier, or more enjoyable!

I will break down what I take in my bag, each and every time I go!

What Items To Bring?

• Gym Bag:

  When you go to the gym, you will want to make sure you have a nice gym back to bring with you. Make sure that the gym bag has plenty of room because you will have a lot of different items to bring with you! Also, you might find it important to have included pockets or hidden spots to put your wallet and keys. If you need suggestions check out our gym bag reviews.

• Change of Clothes

  : If you go to the gym before work or going somewhere important, you will want to bring a change of clothes with you. Be sure to fold your clothes neatly so they don’t get wrinkled for work!

• Lock:

  If you worry about keeping your items safe, just bring a lock with you. There are many cheap locks on the market that will work just fine. I recommend asking your gym if they think a look is a good idea if you’re unsure. Sometimes, you can even use a lock that the gym has. It doesn’t hurt to ask!

• Shaker Cup:

  If you go to the gym regularly, you’ll see that many people bring a shaker cup. Some drink pre workout right out of their shaker cup while lifting. Whereas, some will bring a shaker cup to mix up protein for after their lift. The choice is yours. It is all about convenience! If you’re interested in a unique and high tech shaker cup, here’s a review. 

• Workout Gloves:

  A lot of people don’t wear workout gloves in the gym because there are plenty of jerks that will think they are weak. However, workout gloves can allow you to get an extra few reps on lifts that include grip. For example, I wear workout gloves when I do weighted chin-ups because I can hold on to the bar longer. There is no shame!

• Towel:

  If you shower at your gym, you will want to bring a towel with you because most gyms do not provide large towels. Or, if you do cardio and sweat a lot, you may want to bring your own small towel for sweat. Most gyms offer towels for sweat, but this can be sort of crusty and gross sometimes. If you have the room, throw a towel in your bag.

• Wireless Earbuds:

  Wireless earbuds are an important item you should always bring with you! If you’re like me, your music is what really pumps you up and gets you through a lift. Wireless earbuds are so convenient and don’t get in the way of your movements what-so-ever. I highly recommend taking a look at this earbud review!

• Weight Lifting Belt:

  Some gyms have weight lifting belts available, however, some don’t. If you’re a germ freak, you may want to spend the extra cash and bring one of your own as to avoid all the sweat left behind by other gym members. Going on vacation? Here are some tips for working out and traveling. 

• Water Bottles:

  Definitely bring a water bottle with you when you go to the gym. This is important because when you’re on a treadmill or elliptical, you don’t want to have to pause your workout to go get a drink. Just bring your own water bottle and you will be set to go. Hydration is key when exercising.

• Ab Roller:

  Many gyms don’t provide their own ab roller. An ab roller is an incredible product that helps exercise your core muscles. Many recommend adding the ab roller to your core exercises because it doesn’t just work upper or lower abs, it’s a full ab workout. It can be pretty intense, I highly recommend bringing this item with you to the gym.

• Proper Gym Clothes:

  Make sure you bring the proper gym clothes with you. You want flexible and cool clothing when exercising so you can perform the proper movements needed to have a great workout. If you need some advice on gym clothes, check out a previous article of mine here.

What Supplements Should You Bring?

When it comes to bringing supplements to the gym, there are three different types you should consider.

• Pre workout:

  Normally, you should take your pre workout before heading to the gym. However, the effects start to occur about 15-30 minutes after you take it. If you have a long drive to the gym, you should probably just take your pre workout supplement with you and take it before you start. You should bring your pre workout powder anyways just in case your workout is not going well and you an energy boost. Sometimes I take 1 scoop when I needed 2. I definitely have recommendations on pre workouts if you need them!

• Amino Acids:

  If you haven’t heard of amino acids, you’re missing out. Amino acids are directly linked to fat loss, muscle hypertrophy, recovery, and strength gains. Some people take amino acids before their lift, during their lift, or soon after. The choice is really yours. However, this might be a good supplement to take with you to the gym.

• Protein Powder:

  If you mix your protein shakes up at the gym after your lift, you definitely will want to bring your protein powder tub with you. This is why it helps to have a large gym bag. Science states that it is important to get a protein source in your system as soon as you can after lifting.

The Choice is Yours!

Ultimately, the choice is yours on what to take with you to the gym.

Only take with you what you think you might use. You don’t want to be hauling around 100 pounds in your bag.

If you take any of these items with you to the gym, or have anything else you just can’t exercise without, comment below and share it with the community!

Suggestions will always help!

Russell

Founder of myshakercup.com