The gym. A place many women dare not go until they have the pregnancy pounds or need to fit into that wedding dress. But while many women can go and stay motivated by themselves, a lot of others find excuses as to why they can’t go to the gym or why they can’t stay and get that intense workout.
What will help dispel these myths? Below is a list of items that you should pack in your gym bag to help rid yourself of any excuse and make sure you get to the gym. All of these items non-perishable and can be left in your bag, so there is literally no reason to not have them with you every time you walk into the gym.
1. Ponytail Holder/Headband
This is probably the most basic, but necessary item you’ll need to pack with you. Working out is horrible when you every time you bend over, kneel, or run you’re suddenly smacked in the face with a mouthful of sweaty hair. Besides that, you’ll overheat yourself a lot faster and then require more water than is necessary.
So what if you have short hair? Good for you. You still need some sort of headband. Most women who have short hair have bangs, which will not only cause you to sweat, but will cause acne. A headband helps keep hair from irritating your forehead and soak up the unnecessary sweat.
2. Make-up/Facial Wipes
You want these even if you don’t wear make-up. A headband soaks up sweat and helps with the acne, but it’s not going to get everything. Facial wipes not only make your look and feel cleaner, but it also makes you feel a bit more refreshed when leaving the gym for work or just so your car won’t smell. Facial wipes are also great for wiping those areas that become ‘unpleasant’ after a good workout. Armpits, the nape of your neck, under your boobs for us busty women, and your ‘lady’ area. Face it, ladies, toilet paper will not get that clean. If you’re sensitive down there, baby wipes or moist toilet wipes work just as well.
3. Extra Underwear/Bra/Outfit
You need these for several reasons. If you’re anything like me, you sweat a lot and often get your clothes completely soaked. Sometimes, it’s not that bad, depending on whatever exercise it is you’re doing that day. But if you’re doing cardio, and doing it right, you’re drenched. Sweaty shirts aren’t that bad, but a sweaty bra is just the worst. But what if you workout AFTER work like most people?
If you're anything like me, you've been ready to hit the gym when you realized you left your clothes at home. Then you drive home to change and then just never leave, thus missing a chance to workout. If you always have an extra set of clothes in your gym bag, then you don't have to worry about it. You should always pack extra clothes no matter what, but make sure you throw in a clean bra and panties.
4. Deodorant/Perfume
Okay, so, yeah, the deodorant is common sense and doesn’t need explaining. But why perfume? Well, for one, we aren’t men, and no matter what we think, the way we smell will always matter more in society. It doesn’t need to be expensive. A cheap bottle from Bath and Body Works should be enough. It lasts for a long time, smells great, and won’t break your wallet if you accidently lose it or leave it in the locker room.
5. Positive Music Playlist
You should listen to music and most people do, but if you’re a very insecure woman and are unhappy about more than just your weight, make sure it’s all positive. None of that ‘bitches and hoes in different area codes’ or ‘bands a make her dance’ stuff. While the beat may be good, it’s not a positive reinforcement I recommend. Things like ‘Confident’ by Demi Lovato for intense cardio and ‘Video (Main)’ by India Arie and ‘Unpretty’ by T.L.C. for lifting will make you feel better during and after your workout.
Other positive music for cardio are: “I’m Every Woman” by Whitney Houston, “Firework” by Katy Perry, “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield and “Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson.
More positive music for lifting are: “Can’t Hold Us Down” Christina Aguilera ft. Lil’ Kim, “(There’s Gotta Be) More To Life” by Stacie Orrico, “Stupid Girl” and “F****** Perfect” by P!nk, and “Independent Woman pt. 1” by Destiny’s Child.
So if you’re a woman out there and you need help making sure you stay motivated in going to the gym. You may need to pack more than the 5 items listed above to get the most out of your workout, but hopefully this list is a great start for anyone discouraged or just beginning. Just don't give up! And know that no matter what, you can do anything you put your mind to life.
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