7 Essentials To Stuff In Your Gym Bag
We go to the gym to make ourselves look and feel better. Sometimes, however, it’s easy to forget the number of health risks that actually stem from the gym. Here are some simple things you can toss in your gym bag that will help make your workout safer and more effective.
WATER BOTTLE - Water fountains, due to the large number of people who drink from them on daily basis, are usually covered in bacteria, particularly on the mouth and handle. An easy way to eliminate - or at least reduce - your exposure to those bacteria is to bring your own water bottle. Just make sure you wash it thoroughly after every workout.
2-IN-1 SOAP - A cluttered gym bag is typically a heavy and unwieldy gym bag. Try to reduce the amount of stuff you lug to the gym by finding combination products like 2-in-2 hair and body wash. If you shower at the gym, storing combo wash in your bag can keep you clean while you’re on the go.
HEART RATE MONITOR - Wearing a heart rate monitor during your workout can help make the most of your time at the gym. By using a monitor, you can more accurately track when your heart rate is high enough for cardiovascular or weight-loss benefits. Also, it’ll be easier to know when you’ve reached your limit or if you’re training too hard.
DISINFECTANT WIPES - Certain bacteria - like Staphylococcus aureus, a leading cause of staph infections - can survive in gyms for up to 72 hours after contact with a previously sterile surface, according to a recent study from the University of California-Irvine. If you’re not a fan of carrying disinfectant wipes around the gym to rub down equipment (and even basketballs or volleyballs), make sure to wash your hands with soap after your workout.
FACIAL WASH - Acne doesn’t haven to be part of your workout results. Try using an oil-free face wash to prevent breakouts. When selecting your wash, look for ingredients such as aloe or licorice extract - two great anti-inflammatories - and salicylic acid, which will help combat the effect of sweat on your pores.
WORKOUT PLAYLIST - Don’t let excuses like “my iPod’s not charged” stop you from hitting the gym. Keeping an extra charger and set of headphones in your gym bag can help ensure that your tunes are ready to go when you are.
DEODORANT - Arguably the most important item on this list, deodorant is an absolute must-have for every gym-goer. There are no appreciable differences between the roll-on and spray-on varieties, but there are a few things you should be wary of when selecting your deodorant. First, always check the ingredients for substances you might be allergic to. Also, if you go with a spray-on, make sure to keep your mouth and eyes closed when applying. The last thing you want is a face full of aerosol chemicals.
(Article: 8 Essentials To Stuff In Your Gym Bag, By Steven Holbrook, Contributor | Oct. 8, 2013)