If you’re joining a health club or fitness center for the first time, setting yourself up for a successful workout begins with the right workout gear. You’ll want to wear the right clothes and pack your gym bag wisely, but what exactly does that entail?

Check out this beginner’s guide to workout gear:

What to wear

• Wear comfortable clothing that wicks away sweat. This helps you stay cooler during a workout. Look for brands (e.g., Nike, Adidas) that offer moisture-wicking material, including a sports bra, workout top and shorts/leggings.
• Wear athletic shoes designed for exercise. If you are going to run, wear running shoes (e.g., Nike, New Balance, Hoka) with added arch and heel support. If you are going to strength train or perform plyometric movements, wear cross-trainers, which have added lateral stability. For safety reasons, open-toed shoes shouldn’t be worn for working out.
• Choose athletic socks that wick away sweat. Good socks (e.g., Saucony, Feetures) make an enormous difference and can help alleviate potential blisters and even add arch support.

What to pack

• Your membership card
• Your cell phone
• A durable, reusable water bottle
• An electrolyte drink (e.g., Gatorade Zero) – for a longer, higher-intensity workout
• Headphones (e.g., Sony, Bose, Beats) to listen to your favorite music/audiobook/podcast
• Swimsuit/swim trunks and goggles – always shower before entering the pool
• Sandals/shower shoes for the locker room – never walk around barefoot in the gym
• Shower essentials (cleansing wipes, body wash, shampoo/conditioner, deodorant, hairbrush/comb)
• Post-workout snack (protein bar, trail mix/nuts, dried fruit)

Congratulations on taking the first step to a healthier lifestyle by joining a gym. Now that you have the right workout gear, you’re set up for a successful workout. Always remember: You don’t need to be great to start. You need to start to be great!

Need help planning your workout routine or using the fitness equipment? A fitness specialist can help you develop a fitness program that works for you.

Drive your health forward at Edward-Elmhurst Health & Fitness.