Breast support and water are essential when working out.
Whether you go to a gym or workout outdoors or at home, there are essential items that you cannot do without. These items make you more comfortable during your exercise routine, help prevent injuries and may even make your workout more effective. Good preparation before starting your workout is half the work.
Clothing
The exercise clothing you wear, whether shorts, leggings, sweatpants, T-shirts or hoodies, should be comfortable and allow you to move freely. Workout clothing comes in many different fabrics ranging from stretchy lycra to breathable, sweat-resistant wicking fabric. A sports bra which supports the breasts from bouncing motions while exercising is essential for women. Insufficient breast support can stretch the Cooper ligament, resulting in sagging breast tissue.
Footwear
Unless you are taking a yoga or pilates class, which don't require any footwear, wearing comfortable, supportive sneakers is a necessity when exercising. Sturdy footwear helps you get the most out of your workout and keeps you from getting injured. If your exercise of choice is running on the treadmill or outdoors, wear sneakers with proper cushioning to absorb shocks and take pressure off your joints. If spinning or cycling, proper spinning shoes may offer support to your feet. The shoes are lightweight and non-slip and offer odor control and breathability.
Replenishment
A well-hydrated body functions at its best. When you exercise you lose fluids which need to be replenished. Have a bottle of water with you or choose one of the many commercial flavored fitness waters. Bring an energy bar to keep hunger at bay and to refuel and repair your muscles. Eat the bar before, during or after a lengthy workout. Experiment with different energy bars to determine which one agrees with your body and contains the right combination of carbohydrates, fats and protein.
Clean Towel
If you're going for a jog outdoors, having one clean towel with you to wipe off sweat is sufficient. When going to a gym to exercise, bring at least two towels -- one towel to wipe sweat off your face and another one to wipe down the exercise machine after using it, as proper gym etiquette requires. Always keep the towels separate and bring an extra towel if you plan on showering at the gym.
Hand Sanitizer
Germs are everywhere in the gym because different people use the same machines over and over again. Some gyms have hand sanitizer dispensers available for the members to use. Others offer spray bottles with cleaning solution and paper towels, so members can wipe down the machines before and after using them. Bring your own hand sanitizer with you to the gym to avoid germs and illnesses.
Gym Bag
For all other items you think you may need in the gym, use your gym bag. Place lip balm, deodorant, portable music players, makeup, soap, magazines, keys and your wallet in your gym bag. Keep your bag in a gym locker and take out what you need as you complete your workout.
Tags: workout, your workout, after using, hand sanitizer, wipe down, wipe sweat, your exercise
