The journey to a heathier, stronger you begins with having the best gym essentials that cater to your unique workout needs. Whether you're a seasoned gym-goer or just starting out, having the right gear can make a world of difference in your workouts.
The best gym essentials at a glance:
• Best gym trainers: Nike Pegasus 40 - View now on Nike.com
• Best gym leggings: Nike Sportwear Classics Women's High-Waisted Graphic Leggings - View now on Nike.com
• Best gym bag: Under Armour Undeniable Duffel 4.0 - View now on Amazon.co.uk
• Best gym socks: Alaplus Socks - View now on Amazon.co.uk
What are the benefits?
Gym accessories can help you out in a whole host of ways, providing support, motivation and the means to break through plateaus - that's why you're certain to find them in any fitness enthusiasts gym bag. Take a read of our top nine gym essentials, and how they can benefit both you and your workouts.
Athletic footwear: The right footwear will provide comfort and functionality to a wide range of workouts, from CrossFit to weightlifting, allowing you to perform at your best. Proper shoes will also minimise the risk of injury by providing stability and support to vulnerable and high-impact areas, like your feet.
High-quality workout apparel: Athleisurewear often features stretchy materials that provide excellent flexibility and freedom of movement. This is key for a wide range of exercises, from yoga to HIIT.
Gym bag: Bags with multiple compartments keep all your gear organised and easily accessible, streamlining your gym routine and potentially saving you time rummaging through your stuff.
Gym socks: The right pair of socks will help keep your feet dry and prevent blisters by efficiently managing sweat during intense workouts. They also may provide cushioning and arch support, which helps to minimise foot fatigue.
Pilates bands: The best Pilates bands will assist in activating and strengthening muscles that may not be fully engaged during traditional exercises. This can lead to improved posture, balance and overall body awareness.
Ankle and wrist weights: Both ankle and wrist weights add extra resistance to your exercises, making them more challenging. This added resistance helps to build strength and endurance in the muscles targeted by your workout, enhancing the effectiveness of your training.
Water bottle: A reusable water bottle ensures you stay adequately hydrated during workouts, which is vital for performance and overall well-being.
Boxing gloves: The best boxing gloves provide essential protection for your hands and wrists. They offer cushioning and packing that absorbs and distributes the impact force, reducing the risk of injuries like fractures, sprains and contusions.
From supportive footwear to Pilates bands to gym bags, we've scoured the web looking for the best gym essentials to take your training to the next level. These carefully chosen tools will help you stay motivated, comfortable and on track to crush your fitness goals.
The best gym essentials to buy right now
Best gym trainers
www.nike.com
It's very apparent that Nike upholds its reputation with the Pegasus 40. This latest iteration builds on the accomplishments of its predecessors, offering an impressive mix of comfort, responsiveness and versatility. With Zoom Air units in the heel and forefoot, it provides exceptional cushioning and a fluid feel, catering to both short sprints and long-distance runs. Also, the Pegasus 40's breathable mesh upper ensures ample ventilation, keeping your feet cool during gym sessions.
Pros
- Zoom Air units in the heel and forefoot makes for a responsive ride
- Real-life backing from Olympic gold medallist Athing Mu, who took the Pegasus trainers to the Olympic games
- Heel area is made to improve landing space and durability
Cons
- Some individuals found they were easily dirtied and hard to clean afterwards
| Men/Women? | Available in both men's and women's sizes |
| Colours | Various colours available including: Pink, Black, White |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 10mm |
| Sizes | UK 2.5-14 |
- Customer review: "I’ve tried a lot of running shoes over the years and I keep coming back to the Pegasus. I love that it is a tried and true design that has seen 40 years of refinement. It results in an exceptionally solid daily trainer that provides a great combination of pop, cushion, comfort, and durability. Here’s to 40 more years of the Pegasus!"
Best gym leggings
The Nike Classic Leggings blend fashion and function seamlessly. Its leggings are designed to not only enhance your style in the gym, but also act as a trusted companion during workouts and everyday activities. The high-waisted design offers a secure and flattering fit, while the soft, stretchy fabric that ensures comfort and flexibility. Featuring a chic and eye-catching graphic print on the leg, its leggings allow for a bold look while at the gym or running errands.
Pros
- The fabric feels like cotton but wicks moisture like a performance material so you remain dry
- Thick and not see-through material - nobody wants a VPL!
- Elastic waistband for a secure fit
Cons
- Only available in black
| Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL |
| Colours | Black |
| Length | Full-length |
| Material | Cotton, Polyester, Elastane |
- Our review: "You can't go wrong with a pair of Nike Classic Leggings - they're a staple. I much prefer a full-length legging to a 3/4 one, so I love the length on these and I don't have to worry about tugging them down all the time.
"The high-waisted look is extremely flattering and they have a great variety of inclusive sizes, from an XS to an XXL. I also must mention the fabric, which is not see-through (that's the worst), and wicks moisture like performance leggings (but still feels as comfortable as cotton." Tried & Tested by Health & Fitness Writer Gemma Lavers.
Best gym bag
For individuals prioritising durability and generous storage capacity, the Under Amour Undeniable Duffel 4.0 stands as the ultimate pick. Crafted from a combination of polyester and nylon, this bag is engineered to endure the demanding environment of the gym. Featuring multiple compartments and pockets, it excels in providing meticulous organisation for all your workout accessories. What's more, the added UA Storm Technology ensures your gear stays dry, no matter the weather conditions.
Pros
- Weather-resistant outer due to UA Storm Technology
- Abrasion-resistant bottom and side panels to stop the bag from getting easily damaged
- Vented pocket for dirty shoes or gear
Cons
- One reviewer found the shoe compartment was too small for any shoes that are size nine or above
| Colours | Black, Blue |
| Volume | 58L |
| Material | Polyester |
| Dimensions | H33cm, W30cm, L62cm |
- Customer review: "The Undeniable Duffel 4.0 is one of the best kit bags (I'm a rugby player) I’ve had. The pocket that holds your boots keeps the rest of you kit dry and clean, no need for an extra boot bag."
Best gym socks
The Alaplus socks are made for exceptional durability, and are reinforced in high-stress and impact-prone regions. The arch compression feature delivers robust support whether you're walking, running or hitting the gym, ensuring a secure fit. With these socks on, they're not coming off easily, that's thanks to the high heel tab and an extra deep heel pocket that prevents any unwelcome sliding. Plus, the added elastane guarantees even more slip-proof security for your peace of mind.
Pros
- Suitable for everyday wear, as well as to the gym
- Made from high-quality cotton infused with anti-odour properties to stop your feet from smelling
- Reinforced heel and toe to ensure you get wear after wear
Cons
- Some individuals reported them as a little thin
| Sizes | 3-5, 6-9, 9-12, 12-15 |
| Colours | White, Grey, Black |
| Pack size | 6 Pairs |
| Sock length | Calf |
| Material | Combed cotton |
- Customer review: "Alaplus gym sock is a high quality sock that I personally use for sport. The sock is as good as any top brand, it has a padded sole and is very comfortable. It’s a great price and perfect for a range of sports, whether that be basketball, badminton, squash etc. Will purchase the sock on repeat orders when necessary!"
Best Pilates band
Coresteady bands offer a gentle and controlled return to their original shape, thanks to their innovative anti-snap technology. For those prone to skin irritation when using certain fitness equipment, Coresteady's Pilates band is thoughtfully designed to be skin-friendly, ensuring your comfort during every Pilates session. While Coresteady sells its bands individually, it also provides a diverse range of five resistance levels: from the lightest to light, medium, strong and the strongest.
Pros
- Ultra-elastic and anti-slip materials to assist your Pilates session without stress
- Very affordable
- Complimentary exercise guide included with purchase to help with integrating the band into your Pilates workouts
Cons
- Some users found the material can slip a little, particularly during leg work
| Resistance levels | Available in: Lightest, Light, Medium, Strong, Strongest |
| Colours | Pink, Magenta, Turquoise, Navy, Grey |
| Material | Natural rubber |
- Customer review: "I have been using these Coresteady bands for a few months, and am happy to recommend. They are strong and durable, and have a comfortable feel. The 2m length of the band ensures that they are adaptable for pretty much any exercise."
Best ankle weights
Bala Bangles' Ankle Weights are a game-changer in resistance training. Its chic and versatile ankle weights will elevate your exercise regimen without being too much of a burden. Crafted for those in pursuit of a subtle yet potent fitness accessory, Bala Bangles are ideal for activities such as yoga, barre or even just enhancing your daily strolls. Featuring a gentle silicone coating that won't irritate your skin, these ankle weights offer effortless adjustability to accomodate various ankle sizes.
Pros
- Available in three gorgeous colours
- Purchase includes a mesh carrying case for easy travel
- Easy put on and take off
Cons
- At 0.45kg these weights aren't adjustable, which isn't ideal if you're looking to build strength by adjusting resistance levels
| Filler | Recycled stainless steel |
| Weights available | 0.45kg |
| Colours | Blush, Charcoal, Sea blue |
- Customer review: "I've tried a few ankle weights before and they tended to move a lot or weren't easy to get on and off. The Bala Bangle ones are a little bit pricier but worth it for the ease of use."
Best wrist weights
Proiron offer an exceptionally budget-friendly pair of wrist weights, making it an ideal choice for those new to wrist weight training and eager to give it a go. Its wrist weights are crafted from a breathable, soft and moisture-absorbing material, designed to prevent rubbing and chafing against your skin and ensure maximum comfort during use. Proiron's versatility shines through as they offer a range of different weight options, ranging from 0.5kg to 2kg. If you're seeking a more challenging workout, opting for a heavier weight is certainly worth considering.
Pros
- Sure to be comfortable and breathable due to moisture-absorbing material inside
- Reflective trim to keep you safe outdoors and on late-night workouts
- Non-slip grip to ensure the weights stay in place
Cons
- Can be hard to get hold of in specific colours
| Filler | Iron sand |
| Weights available | 0.5kg, 1kg, 1.5kg, 2kg |
| Colours | Pink, Grey, Blue, Black |
- Customer review: "The Proiron Wrist Weights are easy to use, comfortable to wear. Physio recommended these for exercises to improve muscular problems in legs."
Best reusable water bottle
Have you ever wishes to add a touch of excitement to your water? Look no further than the Hydracy Water Bottle, designed to elevate your drinking experience with its ingenious infuser basket. Infuse your beverages with your favourite fruits for a delightful burst of natural flavour. Its water bottle makes for a reliable companion in your journey to staying hydrated, thanks to its convenient timeline feature. With a generous one-litre capacity, it's an excellent choice for those gradually increasing their water intake and seeking a refreshing way to do so.
Pros
- Infuses water with fruit for a delicious taste
- Sweatproof insulative cover, which makes it perfect for the gym
- Timeline feature to track your water intake throughout the day
Cons
- At only one-litre in volume, its water bottle isn't suitable for individuals who prefer to drink larger quantities
| Capacity | 1 litre |
| Colours | Blue, Green, Black, Purple, Rose gold |
| Material | Plastic |
- Customer review: "The Hydracy Fruit Infuser Water Bottle is large, easy to use, quick to clean and leak proof. Perfect size to hold. Highly recommend."
Best boxing gloves
The Venum Elite Boxing Gloves deliver exceptional quality without breaking the bank. Its gloves boast an elegant design crafted from robust Skintex leather and triple-density foam padding, to provide the perfect balance of protection and power. What sets Venum's boxing gloves apart is the innovative thermal-regulating mesh, ensuring your hands remain cool even as you push your limits. Venum's well-established reputation in the world of combat sports is undeniably upheld by their Elite Boxing Gloves, living up to the high expectations they've set.
Pros
- Ensured durability with its strengthened seams
- Made from 100% premium Skintex leather
- Features triple-density foam for shock absorption and added protection
Cons
- A reviewer found the gloves seemed to slip a little due to the fact they're Skintex leather rather than real leather
| Material | Skintex leather |
| Sizes | 8oz, 10oz, 12oz, 14oz, 16oz |
| Colours | Various colours available including: White, Navy, Black |
| Weight | 907g |
- Customer review: "I use the Venum Elite gloves for boxing heavy bag work and light sparring around 2-3 times a week - I have to say these are excellent gloves.
"The quality of the material is superb, cleans easily and has just the right level of grip when connecting with the bag. The padding is consistent around the glove and actually a lot sleeker than with some 16oz gloves that look and feel quite bulky. These feel compact and solid on your hands and provide the additional padding a 16oz glove is supposed to give.
"I am quite a heavy puncher, and often have an issue with the wrist strapping on lighter gloves that don't provide adequate protection. The strapping on these is perfect, providing the right level of support whilst not being too rigid.
"They also look fantastic on top of the great performance so really can't fault these at all. The price I think is fair as you have to pay a bit for quality in particular when it comes to contact sports equipment, cheap materials and production quality is really false economy. Strongly recommend!"
FAQs
What can I buy for gym motivation?
Motivation is extremely personal, so it's essential to identify what works best for you. Experiment with different tools and techniques to find the ones that genuinely ignite your passion for fitness and keep you committed to your goals. Health & Fitness Writer, Gemma Lavers suggests "invest in some stylish and comfortable workout clothes, whether that be in a pop of colour or not. The right activewear will not only make you feel confident, but also more motivated to hit the gym. I find that by laying my gym clothes out the night before I'm heading to a workout or a yoga class makes me look forward to exercising a little bit more."
Alternatively, a good pair of wireless headphones, your favourite workout playlist and a smart watch may also do the trick in getting you feeling more motivated about heading to the gym.
What essentials do I need in my gym bag?
A well-packed gym bag will ensure your workout routine goes smoothly. We've put together a list of items you can consider packing your gym bag with:
• Workout clothing: including leggings, t-shirts, shorts, underwear and gym socks
• Trainers
• Accessories like a foam roller, resistance bands or ankle weights
• Water bottle
• Protein shake and shaker
• Towel
• Toiletries including shampoo and conditioner for that post-workout cool down
• Plastic bag for sweaty workout clothes or dirty shoes
• Gym pass
• Wallet
• Keys
• Padlock for a locker
• Headphones
• Swimwear
• Yoga or exercise mat
What's the best gym essential to invest in?
The best gym essentials to invest in will naturally differ from person to person. Saying that, one of the most universally valuable investments is high-quality gym trainers. Whether you're into running, weightlifting or fitness classes, the best pair of shoes provides much-needed support, comfort and injury prevention. Well-fitted trainers can not only enhance your performance, reduce the risk of foot-related problems, but also offer the stability needed for various exercises. When looking to buy the best gym essential, begin with choosing reliable footwear that suits your specific workout routine, as it forms the foundation for a safe and effective fitness journey.
Gemma Lavers is a fitness writer for What's The Best. When she’s not travelling or writing, Gemma loves spending her weekend completing home workouts, or attending yoga, Pilates or Zumba classes.
Subscribe to the What’s The Best Newsletter to keep up to date with more of the latest reviews and recommendations from the rest of the What’s The Best team.