The Ultimate Gym Essentials Checklist

Now that we’re back in full gym-seshing swing, we may need a refresher on what we need to pack (our gym bags have gotten a bit dusty, after all). Since all great workouts start with the right equipment—here is everything you need for a successful workout outside the home:

1. A Gym Bag
Okay, this one is obvious…but what better place to start than the place to put all your things? The Sweet Sweat Gym Bag offers tons of space and is made with durable material so nothing falls through the seams.

2. Blender Bottle
Nothing is more important before, during, or after a workout than staying properly nourished and hydrated.

Fill your blender bottle with Pre-Sweat to maximize your energy before hitting the squat rack or treadmill, and return to the water fountain frequently for an H2O refill. When you’re done sweating it out, fill your bottle with Post-Sweat for ultra-rehydration and faster recovery (Bonus: you can actually bundle all three here).

For your post-workout protein, mix in your favorite protein with water or milk to treat both your muscles and your taste buds.

3. Proper Workout Attire
Sneakers? Check. Moisture-wicking fabric? Check. Hats, headbands, or hair ties? Double-check (I’m always forgetting these).

If you’re looking for outfit inspo—check out this article.

4. Headphones
Want to know how to drag out a workout? Do it in silence…bleh!

Don’t forget your headphones so you can jam out to some motivating tunes and get your sweat in the fun way.

5. Towel
Many gyms offer towel-service—but can charge a pretty penny to use it. Be prepared and bring your own!

6. Padlock
Like towel-service, gyms will often charge you to rent a padlock for your locker. Save money and keep one stored in your bag.

7. Workout Essentials Bundle & Yoga Mat
This revolutionized my workouts. Gyms have a lot of equipment—but not everything. Smaller, specialized, and/or personal equipment can be limited or non-existent, so I bring my own!

Use this bundle to warm-up or enhance your routine with added resistance.

8. Shower Essentials
Make sure you have everything you need to get rid of the gym ick post-workout. This can include:

Shampoo
Conditioner
Shower Shoes
Face wash/face wipes
Body wash
Hair comb
Deodorant
9. Fresh change of clothes
You’re all fresh and clean, but you forgot a change of clothes. What do you do? Put on your used, smelly gym clothes or sneak out wrapped in a towel? It’s a Catch-22.

Bonus: Sweet Sweat and Waist Trimmer
Looking to take your workout to the next level? Bring along your Sweet Sweat stick and Waist Trimmer to enhance your performance and work up a sweat!

Now that you’re packed, it’s time to get to work! For a how-to on returning to the gym after quarantine, check out this article.

This article was written by Melissa Pelowski. Interested in writing for us too? Email your pitch to submissions@sportsresearch.com for consideration.