When you are starting your fitness journey, the sheer amount of information you are trying to take in can be overwhelming. Everyone around you is offering suggestions, swearing that you need to try this workout or that product.
Don’t worry though. Well Citizen has got your back. Working out doesn’t have to be complicated, but having a few essential tools can set you up for success as you start out. Read on to find out which products are our must-haves for a successful and sustainable fitness journey.
Yoga Mat
Finding a high-quality yoga mat is absolutely essential to any fitness journey. Yoga mats are often the foundation for at-home bodyweight workouts. They are also great to use for a post-workout stretch session. Yoga mats can help protect the knees and wrists from added strain, and provide more grip than just the floor itself. We love the cushion and durability of this mat from Alo Yoga.
Quality Water Bottle
Hydration is key to maintaining proper body function. Help yourself out by purchasing a good water bottle. We love this stainless steel Hydrojug that keeps beverages insulated for up to 24 hours. As a bonus? It can carry a whopping 64 oz. of water!
Fitness Journal
A fitness journal can be a great tool, whether you are new to fitness or have a routine locked in. Plan out your workouts, keep track of progress, and even write down meal plans in this helpful journal. Its dedicated sections can help remind you of why you are working out today, and keep your goals in sight.
Kettlebell Set
Kettlebells are a great fitness tool to use, to build strengths. There are so many different ways to use them. Buying a set like the one linked above means you will always have the right tool on hand to challenge yourself, as you grow stronger.
Foam Roller
Proper recovery is as essential to your body as adequate fitness and nutrition are. Take care of sore muscles with this foam roller from REI. The built-in trigger points target deep within your muscles for ultimate relief.
Clean Protein Powder
Building muscle is a lot of work! Make sure your body stays properly fed with a good quality protein powder. Lots of protein powders can be packed with nasty fillers and additives that do more harm than good. We love this clean, plant-based protein powder from Ora.
Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are another versatile tool that can help you at any stage of your fitness journey. Use on their own, as part of a bodyweight workout, or combine with weights, for an added challenge.
This set from Amazon offers a variety of different resistance levels, to match your needs.
Massage Gun
Sore and tight muscles can really hinder your ability to stick to a workout schedule. Stay on track with the help of a massage gun, like this one from Theragun. With detachable heads that target different areas of the body, and adjustable speed levels, you’ll find yourself recovering faster than ever.
Quality Training Shoe
Your feet do a lot of work, day after day. Make sure they aren’t taking unnecessary strain at the gym, by investing in a shoe with support. A good gym shoe will offer plenty of arch support and grip. We love this breathable, sustainable training shoe from Allbirds.
Sustainable Workout Wear
In order to perform well, you need gear that will support you. Finding durable, breathable workout wear will help you do your best at the gym, without any annoying constraints. Patagonia has long been known for the quality of its products. Their clothes are durable enough to be used inside or out and will last you a long time.
Dumbbell set
A home dumbbell set can be a great option for days when you can’t be bothered to go to the gym. This set features a variety of weights, for all fitness levels. Additionally, it comes with a minimally designed rack, to keep your workout space tidy and functional.
Weighted Jump Rope
Jumping rope is one of the best options for cardio. It’s a great way to warm up pre-workout and can be done indoors or outdoors, in a relatively small space. This rope comes with adjustable weights on the handles, so that you can up the intensity of your workout as needed.
Antibacterial Mat Spray
You’d never leave a piece of gym equipment without wiping it clean. Why not treat your own equipment with the same care?
This antibacterial mat spray comes in three different scents and helps keep your yoga mat and other tools clean and fresh in between workout sessions.
KT Tape
KT athletic tape is a great product to have on hand. Its unique design provides support to muscles and joints to help prevent injury while working out. They have a variety of styles available, and their easy-to-navigate website will help you find exactly what your body needs.
Mindset
While you can’t buy it on Amazon, we couldn’t write this post without mentioning the most essential thing to bring to any fitness journey: a good mindset. Mindset is key, when it comes to meeting our goals, facing our insecurities, and breaking through the boundaries we create for ourselves. Before each workout session, take the time to check in with yourself, and make sure you are working out to take care of your body, not to punish it.
What are your fitness essentials? Share with us in the comments below!
