This post is sponsored by BabbleBoxx.com on behalf Simply Summer’s Eve®
Some days a quick 5 or 10 minute workout is all I can fit into my schedule. But when I’ve got the time to take a trip to the gym and crave a little more variety when it comes to equipment and machines, I’ll throw on my workout clothes, pack up my gym bag (aka my mountain biking bag), and head out the door. While I tend to rush the whole getting ready part (out of fear that I may suddenly lose all my motivation to actually go), there a few must-have items that I can’t afford to forget…
Headphones
Whether I’m on the treadmill, elliptical, or jumping from machine to machine, a playlist of my favorite songs always helps me to stay motivated. Sometimes I’ll switch things up and listen to a podcast or audiobook, like Fat Mascara for something light, or Hidden Brain for something a bit more cerebral. Really anything that takes my attention away from the clock and aching muscles I find helps me to go a little longer and harder.
Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated while you work out is a must. It helps with your endurance and allows your muscles to perform at their peak. That’s why I always keep a water bottle by my side and constantly take sips throughout my workout. But instead of buying those plastic bottles over and over again – some of which contain chemicals – I like to use a clean, safe glass bottle that I can refill at the fountain, and then simply toss in the dishwasher when I get home.
Hair Ties & Bobby Pins
There’s probably nothing more annoying than having my hair down and flopping around while I exercise. When it’s back in a ponytail where it belongs, it keeps me cool and minimizes the amount of sweat, dirt, and oil that gets on my skin, meaning less risk of breakouts. Just to be safe (and because my hair ties always seem to be evaporating into thin air), I like to keep a good handful in my bag.
Deodorant
Just in case I decide to go all Steve Jobs and skip the deo that day, I’ll always pack an extra deo in my bag. Post-workout, I’ll re-apply after doing a quick wipe down…
Face & Body Mist
Cooling face and body mists feel amazing on the skin after a long workout (and can help you smell a little fresher too!). I tend to opt for ones that use natural and organic ingredients – like aloe leaf juice and coconut extract – to soothe, calm, and hydrate my skin at a time when I feel it’s most vulnerable. Most of my mists come in heavy glass bottles, so instead of lugging them around with me, I’ll transfer some into a plastic travel mister bottle.
Hand Sanitizer
Just in case the person before me forgot to wipe down the machine after they were done, I always like to bring along a little hand sanitizer spray and use it right after my workout (especially during cold season!).
Compact Makeup Kit
Exercise can make our skin glow and our cheeks all rosy. But just in case I’m headed off somewhere that calls for a slightly more polished look afterwards, I’ll make sure to have a little makeup palette or multi-stick packed – something that I can use on my cheeks, eyes, and lips for a bit more pop.
Cleansing Wipes
For when I don’t have time to shower at the gym (or plan to take one at home), I’ll come prepped with cleansing wipes. This includes both shower wipes, and to care for the more sensitive areas, Simply Sensitive Summer’s Eve® Cleansing Cloths. Unlike regular body wipes, Summer’s Eve® Cleansing Cloths are hypoallergenic, free of alcohol and other harsh chemicals, and gynecologist-tested. They leave me feeling fresh without irritating my skin, plus they keep everything balanced (including our natural pH levels). And the best part? They come in the perfect sizes for travel, including soft multi-packs and individual packets that you can easily toss into your gym bag.
Snacks
Finally, to nourish my body from the inside and help it repair itself after an intense workout, I’ll feed it some of my favorite protein-rich snacks. Sometimes days that could mean grabbing a granola or protein bar before heading out the door. Other days, I’ll throw together a quick little baggie of nuts and seeds (and maybe a few chocolate pieces as a reward!).
And there you have it – all my little gym essentials! Add in a workout outfit, fitness tracker, and phone (for music), and I’m set!
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What’s in your gym bag?
