Gym Bag Essentials

by Tonya Wertman on June 12, 2012

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Whether you are looking to switch up your current workout or you are planning to hit the gym for the first time in your life, these basic, colorful and fun workout accessories are sure to make your experience better and help you have a great workout!

1. The right footwear can make all the difference

Fitness magazine named the Avia A1433 ($65.00) the best cross-trainer. With extra cushioning in the heel and side-to-side stability, this shoe is built to handle any cardio class. Its flexible outsole is also comfy enough for treadmill warm-ups.

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2. Facilitate hydration

Drinking water during your workout is vital and you don’t want to have to wait at the line at the water fountain, so bring your own bottle! Beat the plastic bottle blues in style with this BPA-free, dishwasher safe, earth-friendly alternative, the BKR (pronounced beeker) Water Bottle ($28.00 for a 16 oz. bottle) comes in 11 can’t resist colors.

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3. Sweat it out

The sign of a good workout is sweat and most gyms won’t let you workout without a towel. Instead of a boring old white towel, why not one that offers some serious motivation and inspiration? Words To Sweat By towels deliver just that! (only available online and shop is closed until July 15, 2012, check their Facebook fan page for updates)

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4. Tame your mane

Keep your hair out of your face with Lululemon’s Slipless Headband ($12.00), which minimizes disarray. Made of luon, it’s super moisture wicking and lined with sticky elastic that grips to your head to keep in place.

For more on sweat bands, read our post, Sweaty Bands Make It Almost Possible to Look Cute While Working Out.

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5. Crank it up

Research has shown that music can increase the effectiveness of your workout. Without my favorite tunes, that elliptical machine can get mighty boring.

The iPod Shuffle ($49.00) is definitely a bare bones MP3 player that doesn’t allow many choices. There is no display; it just shuffles through all your music so you never know what’s coming next. I really like this concept, however, and I think this is a good choice if you love every song that’s in there and also enjoy surprises. It’s also smaller than a pack of gum, so it’s easy to stash in your pocket for workouts or clip to your sports bra.

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6. Underneath it all

I have searched high and low for the perfect workout panty and I think I have finally found it! The Seamless Bikini Panty by Victoria’s Secret’s PINK! line are perfect ($10.50 each or 5 for $26.00). They stay put, offer full coverage, feel great and come in dozens of bright bold colors.

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7. Post workout

Wet wipes are handy for quick cleansing, but they can be harsh on your skin. Switch to these ultra-hydrating hand and face wipes. Motif Moist Hand & Face Wipes ($1.99 for 15) are alcohol-free aloe-based towelettes and come in Citrus Zest and Ginger, Olive Leaf and Coriander, and Water Lily and Herbs and super chic resealable packets. Use the inexpensive sheets to quickly cleanse your face, body and hands post workout.

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Photo credits: Tim Dorr, Avia, bkr, Words To Sweat By, lululemon, Apple, Victoria’s Secret, Motif

  • http://angelaamman.com/ Angela Amman

    Great tips! I LOVE my shuffle. It’s light, clips to everything, and I only let myself FF through one song a workout, so I hear lots of different things.

  • Jess

    Great list of workout essentials. I think it’s time for me to get some proper shoes.

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