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Gym Essentials for Beginners
13
items Starting the gym can make it feel like you need to buy a lot of things, but you really don’t. These are the basics I’d look at first, along with a few extras that can wait until you know what kind of training you actually enjoy.
Sections
3
👕 What to Wear
🎒 What to Pack
🎧 Useful Extras
👕 What to Wear
Nothing complicated here—just clothes you can move comfortably in and shoes that work for different types of gym training.
A good all-round gym shoe if your sessions include weights, machines, classes, and a little cardio. I like that it isn’t made for only one type of workout, which makes sense when you’re still figuring out your routine. Nike currently offers men’s and...
Nike Free Metcon 6 Workout Shoes
Just a simple workout shirt that dries faster than a regular cotton tee. I’d probably buy two or three basic colours rather than spending too much on one gym shirt. There are separate UA Tech versions for men and women.
Under Armour Tech™ 2.0 Men's Short Sleeve
A straightforward pair of training shorts for men. They look comfortable, have pockets, and don’t have unnecessary details that get in the way while working out.
Nike Totality Men's Dri-FIT 7" Unlined Versatile Shorts
A softer, high-waisted option for women who prefer leggings at the gym. I’d probably start with black because it’s easy to match and you can wear it regularly
Butterluxe Yoga Origin Legging (Women)
A basic sports bra for general gym sessions. Medium support is a practical place to start, and you can always choose something lighter or more supportive once you know which workouts you prefer.
Nike One Women's Medium-Support Padded Sports Bra
Socks aren’t the most interesting gym purchase, but uncomfortable ones become noticeable once you start walking more or spending time on the treadmill. These have extra cushioning and are made to stay in place.
Balega Hidden Comfort No Show Socks (Women)
🎒 What to Pack
These are the basic things that make going to the gym easier, especially if you’re changing clothes, using a locker, or heading there before or after work.
A straightforward gym bag with enough room for clothes, shoes, toiletries, and the other basics. You don’t need a massive bag unless you plan to shower and fully change at the gym.
Nike Brasilia Training Duffel Bag
Easy to drink from between sets and large enough that you shouldn’t need to keep refilling it. Any reliable water bottle works, but I like having one that I use specifically for the gym.
Owala FreeSip® Water Bottle
Only worth adding if you actually drink protein shakes or use powdered supplements. Otherwise, your normal water bottle is already enough.
BlenderBottle Classic
🎧 Useful Extras
None of these need to be bought before your first session. I’d wait until you’ve trained for a while and know which ones would actually help with your routine.
A good option if regular earbuds tend to move or fall out while you’re exercising. The ear hooks are the main reason I’d consider these for the gym, especially for cardio or workouts with a lot of movement.
JBL Endurance Peak 3 Refurbished
Useful for warming up, glute exercises, or adding some resistance to basic movements. It barely takes up any room, so it’s easy to leave inside your gym bag.
Uppper Resistance Band
Something to consider later if your grip starts giving up before your back during pulling exercises. I wouldn’t treat lifting straps as something every beginner needs immediately.
onemore Silicone Grip Lifting Strap
These can be useful once your pressing exercises get heavier and you realise you prefer having some extra wrist support. Another item I’d wait to buy until there’s a real reason to use it.
Aolikes Wrist Support Straps