What’s in My Gym Bag?
I’ve been getting lots of questions recently about what’s in my gym bag…
First, a confession: I haven’t had a gym membership since my first son was born. (That’s been 5+ years!)
I rarely hit the gym anymore because I’ve fallen in love with minimal equipment “do anywhere” workouts. Instead of gym workouts, I do most of my workouts right here at home. (BeyondFit Life workouts in my #garagegym).
BUT, if I did pack a gym bag, here’s what I’d throw in…
What’s in my Gym Bag: Essentials
Water Bottle
Drinking water has a lipolytic effect, meaning it helps break down fat cells in your body. Staying hydrated will help keep your fat loss goals on track as well as ensure you are able to push hard during your workout. Here are a few of my favs:
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Caffeine
Of course you could use some mom fuel (aka coffee) or a traditional pre-workout shake with caffeine, but if you’re on the go and need a quick boost, this Alert Caffeine Gum is pretty cool. It definitely fits into my gym bag and lifestyle of a busy mom. Alert Caffeine Gum is a caffeinated chewing gum for adults that provides a boost when you need it. One piece of Alert provides 40mg of caffeine, or about the same as half a cup of coffee, or a half of one 8oz energy drink. But no jitters! Finally, it’s the perfect solution to get a boost of caffeine, when you need it.
Post Workout Protein Shake
Your first meal after your workout is incredibly important for refueling your body and helping you burn fat and build muscle. Make the most of the post workout period by giving your muscles all they need to rebuild bigger and stronger. For this meal, take advantage of your improved insulin sensitivity, and eat the majority of the day’s allotment of carbohydrates in order to replenish muscle glycogen stores (see carb info below). Additionally, make sure you get your protein in! Make it a goal this week to try to get 1/4th of your lean body weight in grams of protein after your workout. I love shakes if I’m at home, or throwing a quick sample pack in my bag if I’m on the run.
Complex Carbs
In addition to protein, you need some complex carbs post-workout. Things like oats, fruit, etc work well to replenish glycogen stores in your muscle and help you burn fat and boost your metabolism by building and preparing that lean muscle.
Lifting Straps
One of the keys to getting more results in less time with your workouts is to lift HEAVY weights. If you’re like me, grip strength may be an issue. That’s why I love lifting straps like these versa grips to help me hang out to that heavy weight without tearing up my hands.
Workout Outfit
This goes without saying. If you want a killer workout, you’ve got to have some killer workout gear. So, here are a few pieces I’m loving these days:
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Shoes
The shoes you choose for your workout should go beyond style. If you want to prevent injury and protect those joints, make sure you select the proper shoe! What to look for and how to pick the best shoe for you are here!) Here are a few of my favs:
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What’s In My Gym Bag: The actual bag!
Of course, you need a cute bag to fit all the essentials in. These are my top picks:
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P.S. Want to ditch the gym bag (and the gym!) and try a home workout?
3 Things You Need for the Best Home Workout:
Foam Roller
Great for physical therapy, before or after exercise, yoga and massage therapy. The foam muscle roller helps to relieve muscle tension and increase muscle recovery. Many different sizes are available and this density is perfect for positioning, balance, postural and muscle re-education, spinal stabilization and muscle recovery. Get a foam roller!
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Weights
I just love the classic look and feel of my CAP Barbell Cast Iron Hex Dumbbells. You can choose anywhere from 5 to 120 pounds, giving you just what you need for your killer BeyondFit Life workout. I love that these dumbbells feature an ultra durable cast iron finish, ensuring that it will hold up well over time even when used heavily. Seriously, I’ve had mine for YEARS! Also, one advantage of the hexagon-shaped dumbbell design prevents it from rolling when placed on the floor. This kind of dumbbell also promotes effortless storage without all that rolling around.
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Yoga Mat
Rubber, jute and, cotton yoga mats, while available in a range of thicknesses, tend to be thicker and slicker than PVC mats. You can get a yoga mat that’s eco-friendly, with a thickness that meets your needs for comfort and portability, and comes with texture (such as a raised geometric pattern) that prevents slippage.
My favorite are the Manduka line of yoga mats, but just be warned: they’re pricey. (One more reason I am LOVING Amazon Prime sales!) The Manduka mats are guaranteed to last a lifetime, and will never peel, flake, or fade. It only improves over time. I love the density and cushion that helps protect joints and provides a stable surface for both my BeyondFit Life workouts and my yoga practice. Additionally, the closed cell surface also prevents sweat and dirt from absorbing into the mat, which means these yoga mats are easy to clean and good for any sweaty workouts. Check out the Manduka mats, a few of my favorite below:
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Finally, friends, are you ready to ditch the expensive gym membership and all the hours spent there each week? For a steal each month, the BeyondFit Life Club offers amazing at-home workouts that work with your schedule, family AND fat loss friendly recipes as well as the most incredible support system of women just like you! Join TODAY!
