What to Put in a Gym Bag: A Beginner's Gym Guide

Tired of carrying around a bulky gym bag filled with things you never use? Packing the right essentials in your gym bag as a female gym-goer is critical for a great workout session. It’s crucial to have everything you need, from training gear to personal care goods, to feel comfortable, prepared, and inspired. So, what should you put in your workout bag?

We’ve got you covered with a complete guide on what to put in a gym bag. We hope this helps new gymgoers feel ready to go, but it never helps to cover the fundamentals if you’re a seasoned veteran. Say goodbye to clutter and welcome to a well-stocked gym bag that will take your exercises to the next level.

1. Workout Clothes

The first item you should pack in your gym bag is a pair of comfy training clothing. Make sure you pack one whole outfit including socks, underwear, etc to change into. Choose clothing that fits properly and allows you to move freely. Consider wearing garments that are more fitting or have sweat-resistant fabric. This will make you feel comfortable even when you start to sweat it out. Remember to bring an additional pair of clothing if you intend to shower at the gym or have plans after your workout. There’s nothing better than putting on clean clothes after the shower.

2. Sneakers

Sneakers are an absolute must-have when thinking about what to put in a gym bag. Appropriate footwear can make or break your exercise, so choose sneakers that are both supportive and comfy. Consider purchasing a nice pair of sports shoes that provide adequate support for your feet and joints. You can also add a little individuality to your exercise gear with shoes because of their pop of color. Some people get a pair of sneakers for running and lifting whereas others think it is best to have a pair for each type of exercise. Since you’ll be at the gym, an all-around workout shoe will work great at first.

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3. Water Bottle

It is important to stay hydrated during your workout, so you should always pack a water bottle in your gym bag. Try purchasing a reusable water bottle to refill at the gym because it will be easy to access and use over and over again. It’s also better for the environment this way. If you get a water bottle with a charming pattern or color, you might enjoy bringing it with you more often.

ALSO READ: Hydrate in Style with These 15 Best Gym Water Bottles

4. Headphones

Knowing what to put in a gym bag is helpful, but this one goes without saying for most people. Bring a set of headphones so that you can listen to music while working out. Music can help keep you motivated and focused during a workout whether you like doing cardio or weightlifting. Consider obtaining a cordless set of headphones if you want to keep your headphones from becoming tangled. We have a gym headphones review that you can look at for more specific options below.

CHECK OUT: 20 Best Gym Headphones for Every Workout

5. Towel

It is vital to bring a towel to the gym. It’s not only sanitary but can also keep you going during a workout as you wipe the sweat away from your face. After COVID, many gyms demand you to bring your towel to clean the equipment after usage. Some gyms still provide them, but it never hurts to have an extra in your gym bag. Choose a towel with a fun pattern or color if you want to add some personality to it. This can also ensure you do not leave it behind at the gym.

6. Personal Care Products

Gym-goers should bring personal care items in addition to training attire to help them feel refreshed and comfortable at the gym. These are some important personal care products to include in your workout bag:

Hair ties: It is critical to keep your hair out of your face during an exercise for safety and comfort. Bring a couple of additional hair ties in case one breaks or gets misplaced.

Dry shampoo: This can help freshen up your hair and absorb perspiration and oil if you don’t have time to shower after your workout.

Body wipes: If you don’t have access to a shower, using body wipes to clean up and feel refreshed can be a great solution. It’s best to use fragrance-free and soft wipes for your skin.

Feminine products: If you’re menstruating, be sure to pack pads or tampons. Even if you don’t think you’ll need it, it’s a good idea to have a spare in your bag just in case.

Deodorant: Deodorant is essential after a sweaty workout. For a healthy alternative, go for a natural, aluminum-free choice.

Facial wipes: Sweat and oil may clog pores and create breakouts, so cleansing your face after a workout is essential.

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7. Snacks

Packing snacks in your gym bag is a fantastic idea if you have a long training session ahead of you. Plus, you never know when you might need extra energy and it would be a shame to have to leave the gym early or pay for an expensive snack. Choose a protein-rich snack, such as a protein bar or nut butter packets. It can help you maintain your energy level and boost your overall workout experience.

ALSO READ: 16 Best Protein Bars for a Pre-Workout Snack

The Benefits of What to Put in a Gym Bag

Gym-goers benefit from having a well-stocked gym bag in various ways. These are some of the most important benefits:

Convenience: Having a pre-packed and ready-to-go gym bag allows you to save time. It also minimizes stress because you won’t have to worry about forgetting something or hurrying to gather everything you need before walking out the door.

Organization: By storing all of your training needs in one place, a gym bag will help you stay organized. You won’t have to sift through your purse or bag to get what you need.

Hygiene: Carrying your gym bag can help you keep your training clothing and shoes separate from your regular clothes and shoes. It will also prevent the use of shared gym towels and water bottles.

Motivation: A gym bag may act as a visible reminder of your fitness commitment and can help push you to stick to your objectives. You may be more tempted to go to the gym if you see your bag packed and ready to go.

Preparedness: Possessing a well-stocked gym bag allows you to be ready for any training setting. You’ll have everything you need at your fingertips. Whether you need to change into exercise clothes after work, shower at the gym, or carry your water bottle, having your necessities makes anything possible.

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Start with the Basics

Now that you know what to put in a gym bag, it’s time to get out there and conquer your fitness objectives. Having a well-stocked gym bag may make you feel more prepared, organized, and inspired for your exercises, whether you’re a yogi, a weightlifter, a runner, or something in between.

Therefore, make sure your bag contains all of the necessities, and don’t forget to include some fun and motivating extras to keep you encouraged. You’ll be one step closer to being the greatest version of yourself with a little planning and a lot of drive.