Things you need in a gym bag

What do YOU have in your gym bag? For the most part, a successful workout is a matter of having good nutrition beforehand, along with the dedication to go to the gym even when you don't feel like it... And though that is true, there are things you can put in your gym bag, which can help you perform better. Here are our top 6:

1. Sports towel Being an essential part of your gym equipment, the towel will allow you to leave each machine in the gym clean and ready to use for the next person.

2. Fitness gadgets. Smart fitness watches and other devices can help you monitor certain variables, such as your heart rate and the time you take to complete a particular workout. Using these can help you monitor and optimise your performance.

3. Pre-workout. Feeling tired after a long day at work? Scoop up a dose of pre-workout and get your butt to the gym! Stimulant-based products like pre-workouts can be a powerful ally as they will give you that extra bit of energy you need.

4. Sport shoes. A good pair of workout shoes can help you feel more grounded and put your feet in an optimal sports-performance biomechanical position. Not able to feel your squats well? It might just be a shoe problem.

5. Belts and straps. If you are working close to your maximum strength capabilities, it is more than a good idea to have support items, such as belts and straps. These will help you out a bit and ensure that you are stable through your heaviest lifts.

6. Water bottle. It sucks when you are in the midst of a workout and that thirst strikes. Make sure to bring some water with you during every workout, but don't drink it too much, as it may make you feel bloated and heavier.

So what are you going to add to your gym bag?