Two things moms have mastered is packing a diaper bag and packing the kids up for a road trip. As a mom-to-be, I have yet to master that. But one thing I have figured out as a fitness professional and long-time exercise enthusiast is how to pack a gym bag. And I would like to share my insider tips with you.
Because moms are constantly on-the-go, that prepacked gym bag stocked with essentials will help manage the challenge of finding time to exercise.
Planning is a major component in the success of an exercise plan and the gym bag will help keep you on course. Keep your prepacked gym bag in your car for convenience or stow it near the front door so you’ll always be ready for “me” exercise time.
Here is a list of essential items to store in your gym bag. All the suggested items are not necessary, but I'm a "just in case" kind of person, so the list may seem rather long.
Bathroom and grooming essentials. I’ve found that storing the items in a clear toiletry bag helps me locate items quickly. Inside I’ve stocked travel size items including:
- Soap/shower gel
- A shower scrunchy (I fasten it to the outside strap of my bag to dry)
- Toothbrush, toothpaste and mouthwash
- Body spray
- Deodorant
- Facial cleanser
- Moisturizer
- Hairbrush and pony tail holder (I wrap the pony tail holder around the stem to easily locate when needed)
Sunscreen (for exercising outside)
Meal replacement bar. I keep a variety of natural bars such as Cliff Bars, LARABARs, or ProBars in my bag. My faves: Maple Nut (Cliff), Cashew Cookie (LARA), and Whole Berry Blast (ProBar).
Small protein shaker with a pre-measured scoop of protein powder. You can use a small reusable plastic juice box type container. Just add water when you need it!
Hand Sanitizer
Spare pair of underwear, bra, and socks. Who likes to sit around in sweaty undergarments?
Gym shoes and gym socks. Very important!
Heart rate monitor transmitter and watch, weight training gloves, and iPod. I keep these items in a separate bag for easy access.
Flip flops for the shower.
Hand towel to wipe up sweat.
Bodywipes in case you don’t have access to a shower.
Make up bag with tinted moisturizer (with sunscreen!), mascara, and eyeliner.
Plastic bag or breathable cloth laundry bag. To store sweaty clothes in.
Gym lock.
Training/Nutrition log.
When your gym bag is packed and always ready, all you need to do is remember to grab a change of clothes (if you’re heading somewhere else after exercising).
Itching for a lunchtime jog/walk/run while at work? No problem. Out running errands and motivated to stop at the gym for a workout? You’re ready. Chauffeuring the kids to activities and feeling the need to sneak some time in for yourself between kiddo pick ups? Go for it! You’re already packed and ready to go.
Comments