Gym Bag Essentials: Everything You Need for a Successful Workout

There's no worse feeling than getting pumped up for a workout, only to realise that you've forgotten to pack something. Whether it's a water bottle or your favourite pair of headphones, forgetting that one crucial item can really sour a gym session.

Regardless of whether you're fitting in some training before/after work or just going for a relaxed weekend session, it's still important to pack all the essentials so you can get your workout started on the right track. Check out our list of essential gym items so you'll have everything you need to smash out your next workout.

If you go to the gym straight from home, packing will be a relatively simple process. On the other hand, if you train on your way to/from work and plan to take a shower afterwards, things might require a bit more planning. A towel, toiletries and change of clothes all take up plenty of extra space in your bag. Here are some tips to pack efficiently:

Choose the right size bag: Pocket compartments can be handy for separating things like shower items and dirty clothes.

Prioritise the essentials: Make your most used items as easy to reach as possible.

Roll/fold up your clothes: It's easy to cram in clothes when you're in a rush, but you can save a ton of room by packing smart.

Use a toiletries bag: Keep your shower items organised and prevent leaking.

Different gym workouts require different shoes, so plan accordingly when pre-packing your bag. If you're going to hit the treadmill then you'll be packing some runners. If you're working your leg muscles, however, some sturdy platform shoes will be essential for supporting your feet.

There might be a case where you need both runners for cardio and sturdy shoes for weight lifting. No problem! Just make sure to pack both types of shoes so that your body can have the ideal support throughout your entire workout.

The gym clothes you pack will depend on the training day that you're preparing for. For example, you might have some running shorts that you like to wear on the treadmill or a comfortable crop top for light training sessions. There are tops specifically designed for both weight training and running, so think ahead when packing.

Packing an appropriate workout outfit will keep you feeling comfortable throughout your entire training session. They're usually designed to absorb sweat and can even help prevent injuries in certain cases.

Don't forget a change of clothes if you plan to take a post workout shower. This means clean underwear, socks, and even a pair of shower shoes like flip flops.

We all sweat at the gym, so it's a nice courtesy to bring a gym towel as a consideration to others. You don't have to bring a giant towel, either. A small one that drapes over your shoulder is enough to wipe down a machine for the next person. Some facilities even require you to bring a towel to the gym floor, so try not to be caught out without one.

Keeping hydrated is important no matter what kind of workout routine you might have. Sure, most gyms sell water bottles, but the cost can really add up if you're buying a new bottle every time you work out. Try packing a reusable water bottle instead. They're usually a lot bigger, sturdier and a lot better for the environment.

It's every gym-goers worst nightmare. Opening up your bag only to realise the headphones are missing. Most people need a bit of music to smash out a gym session, and while gyms typically play some kind of music, sometimes you need your own personalised soundtrack to get things started. You might even have a go-to gym playlist full of songs that you know will get you pumped up.

You'll need to remember all the essentials if you plan on taking a post workout shower. A shower towel and body wash are a must, and even a dry shampoo if you want to wash your hair as well. You might also want to pack extras like a body lotion to moisturise your skin, or a pouch of hair accessories like elastic bands, bobby pins and hair ties. Lastly, don't forget to pack some deodorant.

The gym locker can be a hotspot for infections like athlete's foot, so you might want to pack things like antifungal spray and hand sanitizer as a precaution.

Depending on the facilities at your gym, you might need to pack a gym lock to keep your items secured. Some gyms have combinations locks in their locker room, but that's not always the case. Security can vary from gym to gym, so try to avoid bringing valuables if you don't feel like they will be safe. You can even keep items on your person if you feel like it's the safer option.

Energy and protein bars are a handy way of getting in those extra nutrients. An energy bar is a great way to pick up your power levels, especially if you're exercising after a long day of work. High-carb bars are ideal pre workout snacks.

It's common to feel like you're absolutely starving after a good gym sesh, and a post workout snack like a protein bar can hold off your appetite until you get home. You'll need that extra protein for optimal muscle growth anyway.

Forgetting something as simple as your membership card can be a real pain. Sure, it's often not a big deal, but no one likes awkwardly approaching the front desk and telling them that you forgot your key card. And if you're going to a 24/7 gym when it's after hours and not staffed, you can kiss that entire workout goodbye.

No matter what your gym's method of entry is, try to keep your mode of access handy and accessible. It might be attached to your car's key ring or put into a separate compartment in your gym bag. Just make sure that you're not fumbling around for it at the gym's entrance!

Planning for the gym doesn't have to be a big ordeal. Just stick to a regular system and remember to double check your bag to avoid any potential headaches.

Pack your gym bag according to your own situation and the workout you're doing that day, and you'll be prepared to smash out that next gym session.