What's In My Gym Bag?

This blog post will delve into what is in my gym bag! When I started my fitness journey, I only used to take my phone, headphones and water bottle to the gym, now I have a bag full of numerous bits n bobs to ensure I have everything I need to have the best workout I can. 

The gym bag that I use is the 'Gymshark Everyday Tote' in Black which was £30. It is very lightweight, an excellent size for carrying all your gym essentials and also acts as a great bag for University as it can comfortably fit a laptop, books etc. It also has multiple compartments and thick shoulder straps meaning it is both comfortable and practical, a 10/10 from me!

1. Supplements 

An important item in my gym bag is my pre workout, the one I use currently is the 'Hyde pre workout' in the flavour blue raspberry, which I usually take about 30 minutes before my workout for an extra kick of energy. However, pre workout is completely optional and is only something I recently started taking. There is a wide variation of brands, flavours, ingredients and price so it is important that if you do take it that you do your research, and pick the right one for you. 

2.Gym Accessories

As I have progressed in my fitness journey, one item I really rely on now is wrist straps. Again, they are not a requirement, however, I feel that they offer me a considerable boost allowing me to lift heavier and for more reps. I don't have particularly strong grip strength, so having wrist straps allowed me to lift heavier weight due to the supported strap. The straps that I use are the 'RDX S4 red weightlifting wrist straps' which were only £13.99, so very affordable and should be a one time purchase.

I find wrist straps most helpful when doing traditional Romanian deadlifts, Bulgarian split squats and sumo squats. There are different types of wrist straps you can buy depending on what you find most comfortable.

My holy grail in the gym is my headphones. The headphones I have been using for years are the 'Beats Solo 3 Wireless', which were just under £200. I understand this is very expensive, however, I use them all the time (not just for the gym), the battery life is superb and they have lasted me a very long time. You can also replace the headphone pads as they get more worn, which is relatively inexpensive and allows you to keep the same pair for longer. 

3.Cosmetics

I tend not to wear makeup to the gym, however, I always keep lip balm and deodorant/perfume in my bag to keep feeling fresh. In terms of haircare, I always have my hair out my face in either a ponytail or a braid, so having back up bobbles is a must. An essential item I keep in my bag is my hair gel, specifically the 'Schwarzkopf Got2b Glued'. It is inexpensive, long lasting and keeps all wispy hairs at bay! A must for me when exercising.

4.Snack

It is super super important when you are working out to make sure you are fuelling your body! That is why I always try and keep a snack in my bag to eat after or before a workout. Sometimes a sweeter snack like a 'Squares bar' or a protein bar such as a 'Grenade bar' or 'My Protein bar', provide a good sugar boost and taste great. Additionally, a piece of fruit provides a sufficient boost of energy!