As the weather warms up that means a lot of us will be taking our workout outdoors. I am talking about leisurely jogs on the beach, yoga in the park and bootcamps around every corner. I am here to share with you some tips for packing the perfect gym bag. So that when the opportunity arises, you will have everything you need for an impromptu sweat session wherever you see fit. I absolutely love my gym and barre studio, but during the warm weather months I love to find a park and get my sweat on. With the right tools, you will never be caught off guard, and for your bodies sake…you will never have an excuse to say NO to a workout!
Above I have pictured my favorite Nicole Miller Tote
A change of Clothes (tights by Emilyhsudesigns) including undies and a bra.
A shaker for my morning smoothie or plain shaker like this one from (@shakeitsocial) with protein power for post-workout repair.
Flip flops for the gym shower or to let your toes fly free after your workout and help you seamlessly transition to your mani/pedi appointment.
***Sneakers would be great if your bag is big enough. Otherwise, I keep an extra pair in my car.
Workout Equipment
The jumprope is my favorite piece of cardio equipment outside the gym.
Headphones, because what is a workout without killer beats?
Exercise bands are portable and come in a variety of different resistances to take your workout to the next level. Remember this resistance workout from last year? Give it a try this week!
A set of 1-3 pound weights. Add a small amount of weight to any type of cardio or barre fitness that includes low weight/high rep exercises.
A yoga mat and/or towel would be a great addition here!
Beauty Products
Baby or makeup removing wipes to remove dirt and oil from your face right away. If you struggle with acne like I do, a travel size face and body wash would also be great. If your fitness center does not provide adequate products for your skin type make sure you have those on hand.
In Miami, I try to wear as little makeup as possible, especially during the muggy summer months. On the days where I need to beautify post-workout, my beauty routine would go something like this: A dime size amount of tinted moisturizer, mascara and a little mineral brozer. Chapstick is simply a given. I tend to have five in my bag at all times. #FemaleProblems
Headbands, Hair ties and bobby pins are essential in taming summer hair. Especially after a workout!
Lastly, I love having a journal on hand to track ideas, food log, workouts and random blog thoughts or ideas. After a workout, my brain goes from dark and stormy to bright and sunny with tons of thoughts and ideas. Having a place to organize them is key, otherwise, it’s kind of like when you tell yourself that you will remember the password to that new website where you buy nuts and bolts, but the odds are, next time you go to log into nutsandbults.com you have to click the forgot password link almost immediately. So, the moral of the story is, write it down people…whatever you feel. Sometimes writing is the best form of therapy. I found this one at TJMaxx and I absolutely love the saying on the front cover.
“Happiness is yours to take. Never give up. Your energy is limitless. Embrace possibility.”
Post Workout
Ibuprofen or advil for inflammation, cramps or the dreaded headache.
Wraps or a brace for achy joints. My tendonitis flairs up almost out of nowhere. It is key to have my really cool brace on hand.
High protein/natural snacks like Lara Bars. Most bars have tons of added sugar, Lara Bars are sweetened with dates and are a great post-workout snack.
Balls of all shapes and sizes. he he Can’t fit a foam roller? I love using a golf ball for the bottom of my feet and outside of my shins. I use a tennis ball to roll out my glutes, ham strings, and lower back when my sciatic pain acts up.
Preparation is key, and these are only my suggestions. I would love to hear what you keep in your gym bag today!
Love and Gym Bag Prep,
Taylor