Here are the essential items you’ll need to get started on your gym journey, along with some additional tips to make your experience more enjoyable and productive:
What to Wear
- Moisture-wicking clothing: This type of clothing will help to keep you cool and dry during your workout. Look for fabrics like polyester or nylon that are designed to wick away sweat from your body. Cotton shirts might feel comfortable at first, but they tend to absorb sweat and leave you feeling heavy and chilly.
- Supportive shoes: A good pair of athletic shoes is essential for providing support and stability during your workout. Choose shoes that are designed for the type of activity you will be doing. Running shoes are great for cardio activities like jogging or using the elliptical, while training shoes provide more stability for weightlifting exercises. Consider consulting a staff member at a sporting goods store to find a shoe that best suits your needs.
- A change of clothes: You’ll likely want to shower after your workout, so bring a change of clothes to wear home. Packing an extra pair of socks is also a good idea to keep your feet fresh.
What to Bring
- Water bottle: Staying hydrated is important before, during, and after your workout. Bring a reusable water bottle that you can fill up at the gym. Opt for a water bottle with a secure lid to prevent spills, and consider one with volume markers to track your intake. Keeping water within arm’s reach ensures you perform at your best throughout your workout.
- Towel: You’ll need a towel to wipe away sweat during your workout. Bring a small, microfiber towel for your face and a larger towel for showering afterwards. Microfiber towels are popular because they tend to dry quickly and are compact for easy storage in your gym bag.
- Lock: Most gyms require you to bring your own lock to secure your belongings in a locker.
- Shower essentials: If you plan to shower at the gym, pack your shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and other toiletries in travel-sized containers for convenience.
- Deodorant: You’ll want to freshen up after your workout.
Optional Items
- Workout gloves: These can help to protect your hands from calluses and blisters, especially when you’re new to weightlifting exercises. They can also improve your grip on weights and barbells.
- Heart rate monitor: This can help you to track your intensity level during your workout. Heart rate training can be a valuable tool to ensure you’re working out in the right zone to achieve your fitness goals.
- Workout bag: A duffel bag or backpack is a convenient way to carry all of your gear to and from the gym. Choose a bag with compartments to keep your sweaty clothes separate from your clean clothes.
Additional Tips
- Pack a healthy snack: If you’re going to be working out for a long time, you may want to bring a healthy snack to eat afterwards. Aim for a snack that includes complex carbohydrates and protein to help with muscle recovery. Examples include a banana with nut butter, Greek yogurt with berries, or a whole-wheat wrap with chicken or turkey.
- Bring headphones: Listening to music can help you to stay motivated during your workout. Choose music with a tempo that matches the intensity of your workout.
- Ask for help: If you’re not sure how to use a piece of equipment, don’t be afraid to ask a staff member or a more experienced gym-goer for help. Most gyms offer free introductory classes or consultations with a personal trainer to help you get familiar with the equipment and create a safe and effective workout routine.
