You may already have gym essentials in mind that you keep in your bag. Nonetheless, summer is a whole different ballgame with a higher temperature and more places to be. In order to be properly prepared, we put together the best summer essentials to keep in your gym bag so you'll be set all day!
SPF Sun Essentials
You may not be still and laying out in the sun, but that doesn't mean you should neglect these summer essentials to keep in your gym bag. Especially if you're working out outside or completing beach exercises, it's crucial to always wear sunscreen of at least SPF 30. Better yet, you should wear as much clothing as your body can take considering the summer heat to protect yourself against harmful UV rays, and then slather sunscreen on all exposed parts. Skin isn’t the only body part that can be damaged by the sun’s rays though. Always have a pair of sunglasses or your favorite hat on hand to protect your eyes and keep your vision clear for the future. Lastly, you'll want to protect your lips with some SPF lip balm. Your lips actually don’t have any sweat or oil glands, so they easily become dry and chapped in hot weather. Be sure to lock in moisture with this summer gym bag essential!
Hygiene Products
With extra sweat (and stench) in place, you'll want to have these summer essentials in your gym bag. It’s safe to say that deodorant is an item that belongs in your gym bag year-round, but it's super important now in the summer weather to fight off unwanted BO. In addition, you may also want to pack some cleansing wipes. You won't always have access to a shower after working out, so simply bring a pack of wipes with you to use afterwards. Just one wipe can help your sweaty, post-workout skin feel clean and fresh instantly.
Water Bottle
This essential you should always keep in your gym bag, but it's especially prominent in the summer time. Hydrating is a must due to the extra heat and sweat in place, so always carry a reusable water bottle with you in your summer gym bag. You should be drinking 16 to 20 ounces of water 4 hours before you exercise, then 8 to 12 ounces of water 10 to 15 minutes right before you start. While you workout, keep up with drinking 3 to 8 ounces every 15 to 20 minutes to keep your body well-replenished and refreshed!
Socks AND Flip Flops
Hear us out as to why you need both. You may think because it's hot out you don't need to wear socks with your sneakers. However, when moisture meets friction, blisters happen. Even a small amount of rubbing inside your sneakers with the combination of sweat can cause skin chaffing. Do yourself the favor and save yourself the pain by wearing sweat-wicking socks when you workout, and have an extra pair packed in your summer bag to change into when you’re done. On the other hand, you can also change into flip flops afterwards if you pack these. Not only will your feet be able to breathe after your workout, but you'll be protecting them from foot fungus. Anytime you have warmth and wetness, there's potential for this. Thus don't step anywhere near a public shower or pool this summer without a pair of these!
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-Gina
