It’s time. Time to shake out the sneakers, roll out the yoga mat, and buy those fabulous running leggings you have had your eye on. You might be fulfilling a
resolution or simply trying to forget that second, or third, slice of gingerbread. No matter your motivation, Susquehanna Style is here to give you the products you can use to kick into gear. The trainers at Momentum Female Health and Fitness Club in Mechanicsburg (www.momentumfit.com) divulged their favorite workout necessities so you can prepare for your gym debut. Momentum, an all-women’s gym, offers personal training as well as exercise classes like Zumba, Body Step, and yoga. With help from trainers Carol Bruce and Tracy Wakeen, we compiled a list of the workout products that Momentum’s trainers prefer. Here are their must-haves:
1. First, grab a gym bag. Wakeen always carries her Thirty-One bag for its ease and organization. Multiple pockets and compartments allow you to separate sweaty socks from face wash, not to mention that it will complement your workout style when you personalize the pattern and embroidery.
2. Your gym buddy is most likely not George Clooney, unfortunately. So the important thing to remember for your gym clothes is that they are comfortable and non-restrictive, according to Bruce. Athleta is a favorite brand among several of the experts at Momentum. This line lets you complete a superstar workout while still looking stylish.
3. Some days you find yourself ready to smash through the workout of your life, ready to take that early morning spin class and add an extra fifteen reps. To maintain that focus Momentum’s
trainers rely on music and headphones. Make sure to pack an iPod or other device with a set of earbuds that will ensure your ability to pump through your workout.
4. Lace up those kicks! Wakeen and Bruce strongly advise to steering away from the trainers and opting for running sneakers. These are lightweight and cut around the ankle, which allows for quick and agile movement. Bruce relies on her Asics, a brand that many runners endorse as their favorite shoe.
5. For the mega calorie burn, pack some fuel to either rev up or reload. Protein bars are great for a pre- or post-workout snack. LUNA bars, one of Wakeen’s picks, are a tasty and nutrient-rich option.
6. In case you have not heard it enough, hydration is vital to a healthy body. The Momentum staff is never without a water bottle filled with the only drink they recommend for exercise: H2O. Several trainers use glass water bottles, while fitness instructor Steph Reider chooses a Contigo bottle.
6. When you are scheduling gym time around work, dinner dates, and every other activity, you want to get rid of the sweat glow on your forehead and the tank sticking to your back. Hitting the showers at the gym is not uncommon. Bring some shower shoes to keep your feet clean while making the transition from benching to beauty. Trainers suggest rubber flip-flops for their convenience and portability.
8. Your sweat sessions will not always end with the Marc Jacobs scent you started with. Therefore, deodorant is a must. A long-lasting antiperspirant, like Dove’s Advanced Care, is great for staying fresh both during your workout and afterwards.
9. You may not need to pucker up at the gym, but you will want to replenish those lips after your workout. Lip balm or lip gloss is a repeat on the essentials list. Fitness instructor Sherry Julseth uses Alba Botanica un-petroleum lip balm with SPF 18 in vanilla.
10. Finally, you will probably not hit the gym with your hair pulled into the perfect ballerina bun. Throw a hair brush into your gym bag with some hair ties or a headband to hold the loose strands out of your eyes. This Sephora brush is made for detangling, to keep your locks from braiding themselves.
