The 5 Essential Items That All First-Timers Need to Bring to the Gym

The 5 Essential Items That All First-Timers Need to Bring to the Gym

For first-timers, stepping into the gym can feel a little intimidating. Between the machines that look like they belong in a sci-fi movie and the gym-goers who seem to know exactly what they’re doing, it’s easy to feel out of place. 

Fortunately, with a bit of preparation and armed with the right gear, you shouldn’t feel anything but confident and ready to crush your first workout. This guide will walk you through the essential items that every first-timer should bring to the gym. Pack these, and you’ll be well-prepared to make the most out of your fitness journey:

1. Comfortable Workout Clothes

The foundation of any good session at the gym starts with what you’re wearing. There’s no need to break the bank on expensive activewear, but it is important to choose clothes that aren’t just comfortable but also functional. They need to be breathable (because you’ll be working up a sweat), somewhat stretchy (for maximum flexibility), and suited for exercise (obviously!). 

A black sports bra is an excellent foundation to build the rest of your workout wardrobe off of. Because black is such a versatile color, it should pair well with just about everything that you own or decide to purchase. 

In addition to a black sports bra (or better yet, a selection of them – you can find plenty of cute black sports bras that also offer great support for the gym right here in our online store), go for moisture-wicking tops and bottoms that will keep you dry, especially if you plan on sweating it out on the treadmill or in a cardio class. Simple t-shirts or tank tops work equally well; for bottoms, choose shorts, leggings, or joggers, depending on what makes you feel most comfortable or what’s suitable for the exercises that you’ll be doing that day. 

2. Proper Footwear

In the gym, your shoes aren’t – and shouldn’t – just be an expression of your personal style. They should be functional, too, just like your workout clothes. Wearing the wrong shoes can lead to discomfort or even injury!

If you’re going to be lifting weights, choose a flat and stable shoe – one that provides the support that you need for balance. For cardio workouts such as running or cycling, go for sneakers that offer good cushioning and arch support. 

One bonus tip that we can give is to make sure that your shoes are broken in before you ever step foot inside the gym. You don’t want to be dealing with blisters halfway through your first session, after all! 

3. A Reusable Water Bottle

It might seem like a no-brainer, but you should definitely bring a reusable water bottle to sip on throughout your session. Hydration is key to staying energized and performing your best during any workout! Staying hydrated not only helps with endurance but also keeps your body cool, especially during intense exercises.

As for what kind of water bottle to bring, that’s up to you. Whether you prefer a cute Stanley cup or a generic twist-top, there’s a wide variety of choices available. What we can recommend, though, is to bring a bottle that’s easy to carry and has a spill-proof lid, as there’s nothing worse than a water bottle leaking in your gym bag and getting the rest of your stuff wet. 

4. A Gym Towel

Most gyms will require you to bring your own towel to place on machines and equipment during use. Even if it’s not mandatory, having a small towel on hand is always a good idea. You can use it to dab away sweat or place it on shared equipment for extra hygiene.

Instead of going for a large and fluffy bath towel, though, try to choose a lightweight and quick-drying one. That way, it won’t take up too much space and add unnecessary bulk and weight to your bag.

5. Personal Hygiene Products

Feeling sweaty and sticky after a workout is a given, but that doesn’t mean that you should suffer it all the way home. Having some deodorant on hand is non-negotiable: apply it before and after your session. If your gym has showers, you might also want to bring travel-sized toiletries such as shampoo, body wash, and a small towel so that you can freshen up after your session. To keep everything neat and leak-proof, place your toiletries in a zippered pouch.

You might also want to consider bringing some cleansing wipes along with toiletries. They’re great for when you’re short on time but still want to feel fresh after the gym!

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Heading to the gym for the first time doesn’t have to be nerve-wracking. With the right essentials in your bag and a can-do attitude, you’re already set up for success. Remember, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about showing up and giving it your best shot!