Get one larger bag to place your shoes in. You don’t want your sweaty sneakers getting all over your clothes. Think about getting a shoe bag specifically designed for gym shoes. Placing your shoes in a bag can keep odors and bacteria at bay, keeping your entire gym bag from smelling like dirty, sweaty feet. [3] X Research source Buy smaller Ziploc bags for toiletries and your underwear. You can pack your clean underwear in the plastic bag to keep it fresh, then place your dirty underwear in the bag after you change. You can also use the plastic bags for ice in case you have an injury. [4] X Research source
Leave the bag by the door or near your briefcase, shoes, keys, or coat. That way, you won’t accidentally walk out of the door and leave the bag in your bedroom floor.
Decide if you would like to wear tank tops or short sleeve shirts, along with workout shorts, tights, or pants. It doesn’t matter as long as you keep in mind your fitness regiment. For colder months, pack a jacket and track pants. This is especially essential if you plan on walking out of the gym still wearing your gym clothes. It’s a good idea to pack extra underwear, especially if you are going straight to the office. You don’t want to put on your nice, clean work clothes over sweaty underwear. [7] X Research source Ladies, you might want to pack a sports bra if you’re planning on wearing your normal bra to the gym.
Don’t forget some socks. Working out without socks isn’t great for your feet or your work out footwear. Make sure you always have a pair of socks in your bag, even if you have worn a pair to the gym. You never know when your socks are going to slide down in your shoes, get wet, or have something else happen to them. Socks are essential items in your gym bag. [9] X Research source Make sure to pack flip-flops. Flip-flops are a must have if you are showering at the gym after your workout. You should never place your bare feet on the shower floor; instead, wear flip-flops to protect your feet from bacteria and fungi. [10] X Research source
Deodorant and possibly some kind of body spray or scent. Just be careful not to overspray the cologne or perfume, especially if you’re not showering fully. Body wash. You can buy a body wash and shampoo in one for the gym. Face wash or wipes, and moisturizer to clean your face of all the sweat. You might want to throw in some toner or astringent, too. Shaving cream and razor. Only pack this one if you’re planning on shaving at the gym. Dry shampoo. This comes in really handy if you don’t have time to wash, dry, and style your hair before getting back to work. [12] X Research source
You can also pack heart monitors, fitness trackers, and any other fitness equipment you have. [15] X Research source
An alternative to hand sanitizer is disinfectant towelettes or wipes. You can wipe your hands down, and more importantly, you can wipe the machines and weights down before touching them. Plus, towelettes and wipes won’t open in your gym bag and make a mess.
