Emergency Workout Kit

I know it's happened to us all. Alarm went off at 5am and we slept walked through our morning routine in order to get the gym nice and early. Upon pulling up to the gym, you realize something...you're still wearing your slippers. Nothing dampers a day like getting up early for something, only to realize you aren't prepared and having to turn back around and go home.

It can happen anytime, to anyone, and that's why I suggest having an emergency workout kit on hand! You can leave it in your car, in your office, or maybe even in a locker rental right at your gym. Here's the checklist:


Emergency Workout Kit Essentials

Shoes: Don't throw that old pair of sneakers away just yet! Stash them in your emergency kit, you never know when they may come in handy.

An extra hair tie: or five. I know I am always forgetting or breaking my hair ties and working out with your hair down- big no no (unless it's reasonably short). Remember what they say, "if you leave the gym looking cute, you didn't work hard enough."

A headband: This is my absolute most important essential. Not only does it soak up the sweat but keeps my hair from getting in my face. Headbands help to keep me focused on the task at hand rather than hairs flyin everywhere! A hat works too but can be tough when your are doing certain strength training moves as the bill can get in the way.

Layers: I love it when I work up such a good sweat that within 15 minutes after I'm freezing cold from being wet. Especially if you typically do your cardio first and then strength train, or attend Group Exercise classes where the temperature may vary, make sure you have a sweatshirt on hand or a pair of sweats. You'll be glad you did.

A water bottle: Unless you are sprinting to the water fountain between sets, don't waste your precious workout time and energy going back and forth to the water fountain.

Headphones: Obviously! Take a cheap pair (you can buy $5-10 pairs at Walmart) and stash them away for emergency purposes. Next time your super pumped to get your run in and realize you forgot your main source of motivation, you'll be prepared with that back up pair of headphones and kill that workout!

Other things you might like to have on hand:

A hand towel: Especially if you are a germaphobe or your gym does not provide, or charges for them.

Shower Essentials: If you are someone who showers at the gym, or think you ever might- it's nice to have that stuff in case you decide you want to. A large towel, flip flops, shampoo and conditioner, a razer, soap, lotion and deoderant. A waterproof tote or basket is great too so you can take it directly into the shower with you.

Protein: I always keep a serving of protein with me everywhere I go. There is typically one in my purse, one in my desk drawer, one in my workout bag and one in my car. Whether you use single serving packets or take one scoop with you in a plastic ziplock, you'll have it when you need it. Things come up and you may have to go straight to the gym starving or straight from the gym to something else. This will help to make sure you don't stop for fast food or opt out for something less healthy, or even worse, not eat at all. Keeping a protein bar on hand works too!


Socks and undergarments: Especially women- it can be extremely frustrating being dressed up for work and changing into your gym clothes only to realize you don't have a sports bra with you. Also often forgot when wearing heels or sandals- socks. So keep one of each in your kit!


What workout essentials do you always have on hand?