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If this is your first time going to the gym, it might seem intimidating in the beginning with all the exercises and training gear. But don’t worry, the majority of gym communities are very supportive and will help you the best they can. Pack up that bag and head out now.
What Should I Carry When Going to Gym?
Well, there are a few essentials you should have. They’ll make your journey simpler, easier and more enjoyable.
Supplements
This might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about your gym essentials, but the supplements are very important. They can make a big difference in your performance, and speed up and improve your progress. They’re good for you no matter if you’re trying to lose weight or gain muscle mass. Some people even use them to gain weight as well.
There’s a wide variety of high-performance gym supplements you can choose from. Some are better to take pre-workout and some are more beneficial for your post-workout period. Which ones you choose comes down to personal preference, health conditions, your goals and your lifestyle. Either way, they will help you reach your goals faster.
Creatine is one of the most popular pre-workout supplements. By consuming it, you boost your energy levels. This leads to increased training volume and contributes to a stronger, leaner muscle mass. Beta-alanine gym supplements are also an option. They’re very efficient in HIIT because they reduces muscular fatigue. Consuming beta-alanine will be very beneficial, especially if you’re an older person.
You also have several choices when it comes to post-workout supplements. Casein is a common option that many gym enthusiasts consume. It has all the amino acids we need, your body will digest it slowly and it’ll repair your muscles faster. If you decide to use it, it’s better to take it before bed so your body will have the whole night to completely heal and regenerate the muscles.
Whey is another option you have. It comes from milk, so if you’re lactose intolerant it shouldn’t be your first choice. Whey will keep you full longer, build your muscles faster and stave off protein deficiency. All of these benefits will help you during your new gym journey. Soy protein is a safe replacement for lactose-intolerant people. Pea and hemp protein will also work their magic and help you reach your goals.
Water Bottle
You probably already know how important it is to stay hydrated during the day. Our bodies need a lot of water to function and get us through the day. This is crucial when you’re going to the gym. Drinking water during your workout will keep you energised and healthy. Having a good water bottle with you along the way will help you a lot.
There are several things you should look for. The first one is an easy-to-open lid and leak-proof design. You should be able to open it even if your hands are sweaty. If you don’t want to bother with lids, get one with a straw so you can sip it easily. The second thing is good insulation and temperature retention. Drinking cool water during a sweaty workout is refreshing so choose a bottle that can keep the drinks cool for hours.
You can also use it to mix in your gym supplements and have them along the way. Look for an ergonomic design you can easily hold in your hand and it won’t slip away. A sturdy handle can also be helpful. Invest in a bottle made of high-quality materials like stainless steel, aluminium, glass etc. When it comes to colour and design, you have various options.
Gym Clothes
Just like there’s an appropriate attire for all events and places, there’s a fit suitable for the gym. Having the proper gym clothes will help you feel comfortable and confident, prevent injuries and boost your performance. It’s important that you keep things comfortable and practical. This means no restrictive clothing like jeans or heavy materials.
Lightweight leggings, tops, and a supportive bra will be perfect. Choose a moisture-wicking material that will keep the sweat away from your body. Some of the better choices are nylon, polyester, and lycra. Cotton is also an option but it can hold moisture for longer. Be mindful of the money you spend on your first outfit. Don’t spend a lot. Get to know your workout routine and what works best for it, and then invest more into it.
Shower Essentials
There’s nothing like a good cool shower after a hard and sweaty workout. Gyms usually have showers and you should use them if there are. You’ll need a few essentials along the way. Number one is good shower shoes. Having some sort of protection on your feet will protect you from germs and bacteria on the floor.
This is a space that a lot of people use and it can get dirty sometimes. Make sure the shower shoes aren’t slippery. Body wash is also important. Choose something that will eliminate odour and maintain the moisture balance of your body. The same goes if you’re washing your hair. Get something suitable for your hair type.
Once you’re done showering, use a towel that’s highly absorbent and will wick away all the moisture of your body. Pick a bigger size so you can dry your whole body completely. Microfibre towels are the best for this task. Apply deodorant for a fresher feel. Last but not least, bring a change of clothes so you don’t go inside your sweaty gym clothes again after the shower.
Gym Gloves
Gym gloves can be a very helpful accessory during your workout if you work out with bars and barbells. It’s important that you find the right fit. They should fit snuggly over your hands without being restrictive in any way. Your hands should be fully functional and mobile. Cushioning is a must. It’ll protect you from close contact with the bars and barbells.
Make sure the gloves have a good grip, something that won’t slip. The part of the palm and the fingers should have a no-slip grip to prevent unwanted injuries. In general, the gloves should fit you perfectly and provide support during your exercise. You might have to try on several pairs before finding the right one, but it’s an investment worth making.
