Members -- 9 days ago
Words: Alex Woodhall
Packing for the gym can be almost as intensive as packing for a weekend away, especially if you’re heading straight to the office post-workout. The modern man needs far more than a towel, Original Source shampoo and Lynx body spray to face the outside world after working up a sweat. Amongst the change of clothes and a towel, obviously, these are the five things every gent should have with him in the locker room.
SLIDERS
For the shower that is – the current trend of wearing them with socks whilst out in public is dubious at best. Public showers can be a hotbed of germs and a direct route to athlete’s foot if precautions aren’t taken. Wear a good pair of sliders whilst in the water and with this monochrome pair from Hunter, you may even get away with rocking them outside also.
Men’s Slides, £55.00 from Hunter
HAIR AND BODY WASH
Space can be at a premium in any gym bag, with a change of clothing, towel, shoes et al taking up residence. Whilst it’s not going to make a huge difference, for time and convenience sake an all-in-one hair and body wash is worth keeping around. Just because it’s for the after workout wash though, don’t settle for less. You skin and hair will take a beating from all that perspiration; show them a bit of love with some Clinque in the shower after.
Clinque Happy For Men Body And Hair Wash 200ML, £22.00 from Mankind
FACE WASH
The post-workout glow is, according to science, making you more attractive – although that could also be the testosterone fuelled confidence boost. That saying, the skin on your face, more so than your body, has just been battered with sweat. Give it a good once over with Lab Series’ Multi-Action Wash to clean out the dirt and maintain a healthy complexion.
Lab Series Multi-Action Face Wash, £18.50 From Mankind
DEODORANT
An obvious one, hopefully – don’t just chuck any old stick in your bag though. Keep a good quality deodorant in your gym kit – you may have done your exercise for the day, but that’s not to say you shouldn’t be using ample perspiration protection. Baxter of California’s take smells fresh and won’t stain or discolour clothes.
Baxter Of California Deodorant, £18.00 from Selfridges
COMPRESSION CLOTHING
One out of left field and not exactly practical if you’re in a rush to start your day, but compression clothing has proven to aid recovery and reduce muscle soreness after a session with the weights. A 2013 review on the topic, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, found that compression gear worn during and after heavy exercise reduce muscle soreness. Ideal if you don’t want to be limping around like a maimed dog the morning (and afternoon) after a leg day.
2XU Elite MCS Compression Shorts, £65.00 from Mr. Porter
AND FOR THE BAG ITSELF
Don’t roll up with a poor excuse for a holdall, or worse a carrier bag. Your gym bag should look like you could be taking it for that weekend away, especially if you’re heading somewhere once the session’s finished. We recommend a subtle and stylish leather option; although don’t forget to protect it with a water repellent spray before you take it into the changing rooms.
