I am not a huge proponent of more stuff = a better workout, because that is simply not true. However, with every sport or hobby, basic equipment is needed to participate and/or make your experience more enjoyable.
I titled this post “3 Things Every Beginner Needs to Maximize Their Workout”, but in reality, these are 3 things that I would suggest to anyone trying to maximize their workout. The products listed below are my opinions and recommendations based on experience and product reviews.
- Water Bottle
You may be thinking that this is a no brainer, but take your water bottle decision seriously. I have probably tried 15 different types of water bottles. However, I am going to give you my top 3 types of water bottles, depending on your activity level.
-For the Gym: When it comes to hydrating in the gym, I prefer Nalgene Tritan Wide Mouth BPA-Free Water Bottle
-For the trail: When it comes to running, nothing comes close to Nathan products. I personally own several different styles of Nathan products. The quality of the product is superb and several of my Nathan products are older than 5 years and still in the regular rotation of water bottles in my house. For running or short trail hikes, I only use my Nathan 2 Bottle Hydration Belt. This is a comfortable belt that has two 10oz bottles that can easily be removed, used, and replaced while in motion. Nathan also includes a compartment that is Iphone compatible for a secure place to store your phone and keys while running. Nathan offers several different color choices that can be tailored to your personal style.
What I love about my Nathan hydration running belt is that it leaves me hands free to enjoy my activity. I have not only worn my belt while hiking and running, but also biking and fishing. I specifically recommend the Nathan Nathan Mercury 2 Bottle Hydration Belt, Nathan Blue, One Size
-For Biking: I LOVE hitting the bike trail. Unfortunatly, I have not been out since I gave birth over a year ago. I hope to get out this fall. Anyway, I like to drink as I bike to help stave off fatigue and cramps. To do this, I do not want to stop and I am not talented enough to take a water bottle out of a holder while moving. Luckily, CamelBak comes to the rescue in a hydration pack that fits on your back and extends to your mouth using a tube. This makes drinking water while biking a no brainer.
I love the CamelBak 2016 M.U.L.E. NV Hydration Pack, Charcoal/Ember
- Weightlifting gloves
When I first started lifting, I did not think that I needed weight lifting gloves….boy was I wrong. Weightlifting gloves come in many different brands, styles and colors. The basic structure is the same, a light weight, fingerless glove that offers padding on the palms and lower part of the fingers. Basically, every time I lift, whether it’s the handle of the kettlebell, a weightlifting bar, dumbbell, or medicine ball, there is some amount of friction that will occur to your hands. Once you have been lifting for a little while, you may develop some calluses that will allow you to lift without gloves. Until then, invest in a decent pair of gloves and save yourself some pain and frustration of blisters.
Currently, I use Nike Fit Dry Fit weightlifting gloves that are mesh on the top of the hand with a lightly padded palm. While they have served me well the past few months, they are now not cutting it when it comes to gripping heavier weights. When I am holding heavier kettlebells for farmer’s carry exercises or in the goblet style hold, these gloves are slipping due to a lack of grip on the palm.
After extensive conversations with other women and research, I have decided to try Women’s Ultralight Weight Lifting Gloves, Trideer Gym Glove For Powerlifting, Cross Training, Bodybuilding, Breathable Lycra & Anti-slip Gel Pad (Purple, M (Fits 6.69-7.08 Inches))
- Protein Powder
There is a lot to be said about protein powder and how to pick the right one for you. However, this is a beginner post, so for the sake of simplicity I am going to describe the 2 basic types of protein powder that would be perfect for a beginner.
Why do you need a protein powder? It’s very simple, when you workout (even a cardio based workout) you are breaking down muscle fiber through the exertion in your exercise. As these muscle fibers repair, your muscles become stronger and in return you will be able to lift more, run farther, bike faster, etc. I won’t break this post down into talking about amino acids as building blocks of muscle, but basically, you need protein to help repair the broken down muscle fibers and ease your post-workout soreness. This is an important part of recovery from your workout.
–Whey Based Protein Powder: By far the most common type of protein powder. Whey is a dairy derived product. You know the nursery rhyme about little Miss Muffet eating her curds and whey, well it’s the exact same thing. This fact is very important for my friends that are lactose intolerant (don’t worry keep reading, I have one for you guys too). Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder, Double Rich Chocolate 2 Pound
-Plant Based Protein Powder: For those of you who cannot use dairy products, or who do not like the milky aftertaste that sometimes accompanies whey protein, plant based protein powders are an option. This is also an option for my vegan and vegetarian friends. Holly Hill Health Foods, Vegan Plant Protein Powder, Vanilla, 1.1 Pound
–Blender Ball Shaker Cups: Last thing to mention is that I take my protein powder measured in a BlenderBottle Classic Loop Top Shaker Bottle, Clear/Black, 28-Ounce Loop Top
I hope these suggestions gave you some ideas of what you might want to invest in for your new workout routine. Feel free to email or comment below with any questions or suggestions that you might have.