Gym Bag Essentials For A Killer Workout!
When you arrive at the gym you should be equipped for war, a soldier doesn’t go into battle without his weapons… why should you be any different? The following 9 items are my gym bag essentials, I carry them everywhere!
Towel
Essential for cleaning sweat (yours and others!) off benches & machines. Most gyms won't let you train unless you have your own towel.
Chalk
I use gym chalk regularly to ensure the muscle group I am targeting gets trained correctly, if you're constantly stopping or falling a few reps short from your goal due to your grip strength you're not getting the maximum bang for your buck out of your workout. If you use chalk be considerate.
Flat Soled Shoes
Running shoes are made for running, not for performing heavy squats, deadlifts and the like. When performing heavy compound lifts such as the above it's paramount you have a sturdy foundation - flat soled shoes are a must. Converse All Stars are a favourite among power lifters.
Weight Belt
Lower back insurance.
Wireless Sports Oriented Earphones
One of the best investments I've made, these wireless (Bluetooth) earphones ensure no cables get in the way when lifting and no ear buds fall out when performing cardio. perfect. Check out my full review here.
Filtered Drink Bottle
I refuse to drink out of the gym's water fountain - if you've ever seen the barrage of chemicals used to clean the mouthpiece on these things you'll know bringing your own water from home is a must (ideally filtered).
Lifting Straps
Great for getting those extra few reps on your deadlift, bent over rows, pull-ups or hanging leg raises.
Deep Heat
Deep Heat is a godsend for reducing muscular pain, if I've got any aches or pains I apply this generously before my workout.
Rhino Ball
Conclusion
Don't be one of those guys that spends all of his money on the latest stringer singlets to keep up appearances in the gym - your gym bag should contain items that will assist you in your training - whether this be in terms of muscular pain relief (Rhino Ball, Deep Heat etc.) or aids to help you get out those last few reps (Weight Belt, Straps, Chalk). When purchasing an item think from an investors standpoint. Is $15 for a Rhino Ball worth the reduction in pain and soreness along with increase flexibility due to looser muscles? In my eyes, definitely. That's a good investment.
