Enjoy the Great Indoors with our Gym Survival Checklist
NOVEMBER 24, 2010
Its getting to be that time of year where enjoying your workout outside becomes more challenging. Some days it's nearly impossible with temperatures below zero and icy trails and roads. So, you'll probably find yourself dusting off that ol gym membership you keep paying for and put it to use. If you're not a regular gym-goer, it can be somewhat intimidating. Many people feel the stress of fighting traffic to get there, crossing your fingers that the equipment you want to use is available, or feeling the pressure of working out as hard as the person next to you. One of the easiest ways to make the gym experience the best it can be is to be prepared. Weve put together a gym survival checklist.
Designate a specific gym bag. This bag is for the gym and only the gym, and ensures the following contents always make it there.
KT Tape: To aim for a pain-free workout, tape up before you train.
Extra set of workout clothes: Weve all been there-- you get to the gym, start changing and see youve forgotten your shorts. Its always smart to have a back up.
Towel: Nothing stinks more than when the gym is out of towels. Just bring your own, its that simple.
Toiletry kit: Since you might have to go back to work, a meeting, or dinner, be sure to smell good after your workout.
iPod and headphones: Unless you like to listen to the chatty Kathy on the treadmill next to you, make a killer playlist that will motivate you.
Water bottle: Its so important to stay hydrated. We recommend going with an eco-friendly reusable bottle like the ones from Hydro Flask. It's BPA free, stainless steel and can keep your water ice-cold for up to 24 hrs.
Granola Bar: If you have a healthy option in your bag, you'll be less likely to do that post-workout Burger King run.
Sports watch: Keep track and monitor your workout with a smart fitness watch like the M-Series from Suunto. It's a heart rate monitor and workout training guide all in rolled into one.
Extra hair ties: Ok, this is only for those with long hair, but youll be happy you have some extra hair ties to get your mane out of your face during your workout. Loose hair + sweat = yuck.