{"id":1533,"date":"2019-05-14T22:59:46","date_gmt":"2019-05-14T22:59:46","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.yogadirectorycanada.com\/community\/?p=1533"},"modified":"2021-04-27T01:23:50","modified_gmt":"2021-04-27T01:23:50","slug":"curating-the-perfect-workout-bag","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.yogadirectorycanada.com\/community\/curating-the-perfect-workout-bag\/","title":{"rendered":"Curating the Perfect Workout Bag"},"content":{"rendered":"

Head to the gym knowing you have every base covered by curating the perfect workout bag. Going to the gym or meeting up with your running or biking group requires a lot of stuff to be prepared. The last thing you want is to do an intense workout and forget a change of clothes or to go the entirety of your lift routine without your water bottle. To ensure your workout bag is packed and ready to go, check these following items off your list before you head out the door!<\/p>\n

Gym Bag<\/h2>\n

Before anything else, you\u2019re going to need a gym bag<\/a>. Not all gym bags are the same. They come in different shapes and sizes, as well as colors that you can pick to match your style. If you plan to pack extra clothes, a towel, shoes, water bottles, and more, you\u2019re going to need a large bag to fit everything. Or, if you\u2019re simple and need only a few things to get you through your routine, a smaller gym bag will do. Are you a yogi? Store your yoga mat<\/a> in a yoga gym bag<\/a> that has a separate compartment just for your mat! This way, you\u2019ll have an extra hand to spare and more freedom of movement.<\/p>\n

Shoes<\/h2>\n

If you plan to head on over to the gym after work, you\u2019ll be disappointed when we tell you flats or heels won\u2019t do the trick when it comes to working out. Investing in the best cross training shoes for women<\/a> or men will ensure every workout routine goes to plan. When looking for a shoe for the gym, you want one with enough cushion and support. Do you plan on focusing on aerobic workouts that boost your cardiovascular strength? Opt for running shoes that give you the support you need. Or, do you plan to do heavy lifting and squatting? Shoes with traction control and a lower heel drop will keep you planted firmly on the ground for maximum stability.<\/p>\n

Extra Clothes<\/h2>\n

When you\u2019re at the gym, in your yoga class, or just got back from a group run, you\u2019re going to want extra clothes to change into. A fresh pair of clothes will not only keep you dry from all the sweat you produced, it will also reduce cases of acne and bacterial infections if you have a cut on your skin. If you\u2019re a yoga teacher<\/a> or an instructor to a workout class, packing your workout bag with multiple changes of clothes will ensure you\u2019re clean and hygienic. As you shop for workout clothes, aim for breathable materials that wick moisture away, such as high-tech polyester garments that don\u2019t absorb water like cotton.<\/p>\n

Fuel<\/h2>\n

When you work out, your body releases sweat and salt. The more intense of a workout you perform, the more sweat you will produce. This means you have to properly hydrate and fuel your body before, during, and after you exercise so you don\u2019t become dehydrated. So, opt for water or sports drinks that have electrolytes and some sodium to retain water in your body. Then, end a workout with a protein shake that helps build muscle and heal your body<\/a> after intense physical activity.<\/p>\n

Personal Care Products<\/h2>\n

After you\u2019re done working on your flexibility and balance<\/a> in your yoga class or pumping iron in the gym, you\u2019re going to want to rinse off and get clean. The gym is prone to bacteria that can cause infections and illnesses in humans, which is why it\u2019s always important to wipe down mats and equipment before and after you exercise. When you\u2019re finished with your routine, showering off will ensure you stay clean and healthy. Here\u2019s a list of must-have personal items you need in your gym bag:<\/p>\n