Maximize Your Day: Workout Bag Essentials
Packing a workout bag can be vital for those sucked into a busy daily routine. Life gets busy; we understand that. If you do not prepare, you prepare to fail. One main lesson I want everyone to take away from Particular Habits is the importance of showing up for yourself. There is power in commitment, routine, and determination. If you are going to make a commitment to work out or wake up earlier, do it! Today, I am going to break down some workout bag essentials so you can show up to your workout ready to succeed. Let’s dive in!
Workout Bag Options:
A workout bag’s only job is to carry your gear to the gym. You can buy the newest and trendiest bag, or grab an old bag you have at home. No matter what bag you use, ensure it is large enough to hold everything you may need for the gym. Here are a few links to new gym bags on the market:
Tyranny of The Clock:
Packing a workout bag to throw in your car before work or school can allow for the utmost amount of productivity. There is more time in the day than you realize. Many people feel like they never have enough time in the day to achieve tasks outside of work- whether that be passion projects, working out, or spending time with loved ones. However, many studies have shown that we are more stressed by our psychological thoughts than by the tyranny of the clock (1). People feel like they’re at the mercy of other factors; if you’re looking for a sense of control over your day, showing up prepared might do the trick. By taking 5 minutes the night before a busy work day to pack a workout bag, you can maximize the hours in your day. Do not reactively approach fitness or daily tasks; show up prepared and make the most out of your day.
If you need other mechanisms to feel productive, try time blocking important tasks. Instead of feeling scattered with several tasks at once, choose one to focus on for an hour or two, and get it done. This goes for work, school, and even working out! Packing a bag can allow you to effectively time block at the gym- show up prepared and focus for the next hour to get your workout done!
Feeling more prepared for your day now? I sure hope so! Let’s dive into some of those workout bag essentials!
The Essentials:
Change of Clothes:
If you plan on running to the gym after work, make sure you’ve packed all your workout clothes to quickly change into! This includes a workout set, socks, shoes, and hair tools such as a hair tie or clip! Having all of this gear is essential for a good workout! If you need inspiration on these items, check out my previous blog, What to Wear When Working Out.
If you are headed to the gym BEFORE work or school, ensure you’ve packed all your work clothes, work shoes, your shower essentials, and hair care essentials! Don’t forget to pack your work bag as well!
Fuel:
After a busy day of work, you should have some sort of snack, preferably a quick and easy-to-digest carb. Pre-workout fuel I enjoy includes: banana, peanut butter toast, fruit leather, rice cakes, or apple sauce. Grab something that works for you! You should also have plenty of water and electrolytes if you plan on doing some cardio or a heated workout! The same items should be packed if you are working out before work as well.
Hygiene:
Having some hygienic essentials in your workout bag never hurts. If you are rushing around or always on the go, some of these items can save you when you’re in a pinch! Pack some/most of the following:
- Deodorant
- Facial disinfectant spray
- Perfume
- Hand sanitizer
- Gum
- Shower essentials
- Hair care items
Add-Ons:
If you have any other extra equipment or technological resources for your workout, you should pack these as well. Some other gear includes:
- Towel
- Yoga mat
- Head phones
- Running watch
- Personal weights
- Workout bands
Showing up prepared is extremely important for a successful workout. If you want to maximize your day, crush your workout, and feel good while doing it, a workout bag and a well-thought-out plan will get you there! If you found this blog helpful, let me know by commenting on my recent Instagram post! If you have any suggestions, please contact me HERE. And if you have any comments or concerns, please contact me HERE. Thank you so much for being here and taking the time to be a part of this community at Particular Habits. You got this!
Resources:
https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/why_you_never_seem_to_have_enough_time