Do I Need A Gym Bag?
The kinds of questions I get from newbies at the gym always have a way of giving me the nostalgic memory of my first day, the day I decided to take my clueless self to the gym. Just the other day, a random guy asked why I usually carry such a huge gym bag even when going for short workout sessions. The question got me thinking…
Do I need a gym bag? Every gym-goer needs a gym bag. A gym bag is a must-have starter pack for anyone serious about fitness. That is because it helps to carry gym essentials such as water bottles, and shower supplies, protein bars, clothes, post-workout snack, and so forth in an orderly manner.
Like in many things in life, there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to selecting a gym bag. The last thing that you want is to arrive in “style” carrying a golf bag to the gym. You may be forgiven for such if it is your first time in a gym. But you know what they say about the first impression. Also, did you know a good gym bag can give you an extra energy boost during your workouts?
I should probably inform you beforehand that:
- Having the biggest or the most sophisticated bag is not an indicator of your fitness levels
- Some individuals have never stepped their feet to the gym rooms with bags, yet they still manage to get through their workout. Don’t ask me how.
- The apparel market offers a wide range of bags, each having its unique features, built quality and extras. It is up to you to find the best bag that will suit your needs.
Factors to Consider When Selecting A Gym Bag
Choosing an ideal gym bag is often a daunting task for both athletes and regulars alike. Most bag sellers usually interact with two kinds of people, those who are very product specific- read “the perfectionists,” who are very attentive to detail, and there are those who do not put much thought in selection of a bag- I honestly hope they do not put forth this persona in their day-to-day life. Not that it is any of my business, anyway.
Don’t get me wrong here, neither of these two ends up with the right bag that suits their need. Such people end up seeking validation from their gym buddies, and there can be nothing more annoying than having to assure an adult that their bag is not “as bad as it seems” while in real sense, it is downright terrible. So, the next time you will be purchasing a bag, here are a few things to look out for:
Size
Size is probably the most important thing to consider before you make any purchase. You should be able to pack all the items you plan to carry with ease. That is important to prevent damaging your delicate items such as water bottle and earbuds; a common occurrence with those who insist on using bag packs and are forced to cram all their things in one compartment.
If you are not sure of a suitable size, the best thing to do is to come up with a list of items you will be carrying to the gym regularly. For first-timers, read on to the third section where some of the essentials have are listed. Apart from that, you should also consider your training pattern. Those who go to the gym and proceed to work and vice versa require larger bags since at any given time, the bag usually has another set of clothes and shoes. On the other hand, those who freshen up at home following a workout session are usually more comfortable with smaller bags. If you fall in this category, also read on, there is something for everyone.
Material and built quality
There is a wide variety of material to select from, be it canvas, nylon, leather or a combination. Nylon bags are usually the most aesthetically appealing. Most young ladies prefer them since they create a vibe of being bold, cute and colorful. Leather bags are also the right choice if you’re considering a durable bag. However, if you choose to go with a leather bag, you can only get value for your money if you know how to spot genuine leather. Remember, you will require a lot of finesse in maintaining the bag, more so during cleaning. My personal favorite is a reinforced canvas bag since most are designed to offer the best of both worlds of leather and nylon. Those bags are usually tough, stylish and easy to maintain. If you get confused about getting the material part right, your best bet would be to get a canvas bag. Thank me later!
Pockets and compartments
Three years ago, I encountered a cringeworthy experience which has become my ice-breaking story whenever I switch to a new gym. After a long gruesome workout, my fitness buddy, let’s call him Adrian, offered me a chance to taste her new post-workout shake. Who am I to say no- especially when free things are involved? On my second gulp, I realized the protein shake had a weird salty taste, and oh my, it had some pretty hard clumps. Long story short, that was the day I willingly sipped someone’s nasty, germy sweat from God knows where- a result of clumping everything in one compartment. Well, I know you may be comfortable around dirt and sweat, but for the sake of the rest of us, get a compartmentalized bag and Don’t be like Adrian!
A gym bag with sufficient compartments and a wide array of pockets help with organization. You get to separate the shower supplies, dirty clothes from clean ones, and safely keep your post-workout meal without having a fear of contamination. Apart from that, it helps to retrieve items without having to unpack everything.
Lockable bag with durable zippers
If you have owned a few bags, you will realize that the weakest point in an otherwise excellent bag is the zipper. Besides being careful when handling the zipper, you need to select a bag whose zipper can endure the elevated degree and untampered energy, more so during or immediately after an adrenaline-filled workout session
Moreover, it is not the worst idea in the world to consider acquiring a bag with a lockable zipper. One undisputed fact is that a gym has people from all walks of life. It can also be tempting to some individuals upon discovering that an unlockable zip is the only thing standing in their way from owning the mp3 player in your bag.
Brand
Admittedly, some people consider purchasing a gym bag based on brand as vain. Individuals who subscribe to this train of thought argue that it is unreasonable to pay extra dollars just to get a logo. Such people often prefer to purchase generic brands.
However, avid shoppers know the benefit of getting a reputable brand. First, if you have ever bought any fitness apparel, you will agree with me that the cheap ones are usually costly since most of them are usually either ill-fitting, made of poor-quality material or just downright mediocre stuff. Brand names typically have a reputation, and with reputation comes quality. Additionally, the feeling you get when rocking a Ferrari, Clair Chase, Under Armour, Adidas or even Puma bag is uplifting. Buying a bag from a reputable brand such as the trending Under Armor Storm Duffel bag made me realize how people who claim that “one cannot buy happiness” are very wrong.
Benefits of a Gym Bag
The gym bags are designed to be “gym bags.” What that means is that they are designed to serve active gym-goers specifically. While you can use your ordinary handbag or bag pack in carrying a few things to the gym, it is very easy to create a huge mess due to disorganization.
Apart from that, gym bags are designed to withstand extreme conditions and use. You can throw in any gym accessory, including light dumbbells without running the risk of damaging the bag. However, the same cannot be said for other bags. Lastly, the horizontal form factor for these bags makes it easy to arrange different items and retrieve them with ease.
Lastly, gym bags can serve as excellent travel bags. As the saying goes, you can use a gym bag to travel but can’t use a travel bag for fitness. I am kidding though, that is not a saying, I just made it up right now. Nonetheless, it makes perfect sense. Having a gym bag can serve a dual purpose, fitness and travel. That is possible, especially if you can select a classy design with cool neutral colors such as grey or black. Regardless of your load, there will always be sufficient space to accommodate them in these bags.
Must-Have Items in a Gym Bag
While you are still rationalizing with plausible reasons why you should not get a gym bag, going through the list of must-have items to the gym will probably ground you to a decision. This section is essential, especially to first-timers or “friends to the gym-goers.” You fall in the latter category if you always go to the gym, yet you neither have a goal nor a mission to accomplish.
Membership tag
A membership tag is the key that grants you access to the gym, yet it is one of the most forgotten items. You need to dedicate a pocket for your membership tag permanently. Hoping that you do not switch your bags regularly, you will never be caught off-guard by the receptionist for forgetting your membership card. Noting is worse than sacrificing your morning sleep to arrive at the gym at 5:00 am, only to be denied entry for forgetting to carry your membership card. Such simple mistakes are avoidable.
Gym shoes
Pairing the right shoe with the right activity goes a long way in keeping you motivated. Most gym bags often come with a separate compartment specifically for shoes. Their designs are usually to allow air circulation to the shoes. If you have to ask the reason for this, then maybe this article is not for you. Simply put, for the sake of everyone, sweaty shoes are smelly shoes.
Workout clothes
Some of the things being mentioned, such as workout clothes may seem obvious till the day you realize you have forgotten workout apparel. If you are yet to experience this, then you are not a legend; and I am saying this because I know the pain of having to walk with sweaty underwear for an entire day, because of a simple mistake. Must have workout essential wear include:
- top or tee shirt
- Bottoms (be it sweatpants, shorts or leggings)
- Gym socks
Gym towel
Most gyms these days have policies that require all their members to carry their towels. No one wants to touch your sweat, and it is usually irritating to find a pool of sweat on the bench press. Wiping off your sweat after you are done using machines is hygienic and good manners. However, always remember to remove the towel from the gym bag as soon as you arrive home to prevent it from being damp.
Water bottle
Water is life! Being hydrated during a workout session helps one to power through a workout session without feeling leathery. There is no other better way of ensuring this than equipping yourself with your water. However, if you are the type that is reliant on free water provided at the dispenser, wait till the day the gym runs out of water, or you get an infection from different people handling the equipment and cups with their sweaty hand. Through such experiences, you will learn to make better life choices. A good water bottle also comes in handy in mixing your pre-workout and post-workout shakes.
Earbuds
For most people, good music helps in pacing their workout and keeps them motivated throughout the entire session. However, only legends know how wearing earbud can save one from incessant chatter from random people at the gym. I know a few friends who wear them without necessarily listening to any music. A bonus for those who get to work out in peace; double bonus if they workout while listening to their favorite tunes. I have mentioned earbuds in this post since most people tend to forget them only to realize what they are missing minutes into their workouts. Save a pocket for the earbuds in your gym bags.
Other essentials that you can carry in your gym bags include personal care items, energy bars, post-workout meals etc. I could go on and on, but I think I have driven the point home- there is a lot to carry in the gym bag. And for those who still feel that they do not have much to carry to the gym, say hello to gym sacks.
What is a Gym Sack?
Variety is the spice of life, and that is why gym bags come in various designs, shapes, and forms. Gym sacks a darling for most people looking for a quick solution. The bags are simple, stylish, elegant, and to top it off, cost-effective. If you choose to use gym sacks, you will have limitless options.
Branded: Most of these bags are excellent for product promotion, and if it is your lucky day, you may get a gym sack which has been branded by Adidas, Nike, or your favorite brand.
Plain colored: There is a wide array of colors to select from. These are ideal for minimalists, who are often comfortable carrying bags that don’t attract unnecessary attention.
Statement bags: Some gym sacks have prints of quotes from famous athletes, or anything motivational.
Worth noting is the fact that the diversity of materials used in making the bags has increased, and getting a burlap, cotton, or even a canvas bag has become a commonplace. Additionally, newer designs feature multiple compartments with zippers, and the build quality is improving with each passing day. If you decide to go the gym sack way, you can experiment with a few till you find one that accentuates your personality.
Related Questions
Does that mean that I cannot use my regular bag pack to the gym?
No. You can use your bag pack or any other bag for that matter.
After all is said and done, the most important thing is to get to the gym and have a good workout session. Therefore, if you feel that you can comfortably use your bag pack, then, who am I to say no.
Are gym bags gender specific?
There are gym bags specifically for men, for women. However, most companies manufacture unisex bags.
Nonetheless, there is a slight variation between those which are designed specifically for men and those for women. An easy way to distinguish is the color scheme and the detailing. Often, women’s bags are brightly colored and have more compartments and pockets.