Top 10 items needed to have a KICK-ASS workout:

#10: Good shoes that are intended for the type of workout you are doing….running, cardio, indoor cycle…make sure you are wearing the correct ones for the specific type of activity. (We like Brooks or Hoka Ones for running, Asics for cardio/cross trainer and Specialized for indoor cycle)

#9: A water bottle…hydration is key to high performance! Small sips when working out and then you can chug when you are all done. But no one wants to go searching for a water fountain at the gym or a glass of water at home or feel parched on a 4-mile outdoor run. (check out our favorite Contiga 40 oz bottle)

#8: A supportive sports bra…ladies, if the girls are not supported when you are exercising your back is going to hurt later and things are not going to look pretty later in life! (you can’t go wrong with Lululemon, but you can also find great sports bras at Ross)

#7: Socks…have you ever worked out with no socks? YUCK!!! That is a recipe for blisters and stinky feet. But not all socks are created equal. Make sure you wear ones that are thick enough and won’t slip down into your shoes (check out our faves by Bombas!).

#6: High-waisted leggings. There is nothing more distracting than having to stop your workout to hike up your pants over your booty. Am I right??? Good quality, high-waisted, compression tights are the best (these are our favorites from Lululemon)

#5: Weight-lifting gloves. Yes there is something to be said for the honor of a callus on your hand from lifting. However, if you prefer your hands to be soft and smooth, you might want to check out these gloves.

#4: Headband. Let’s keep the sweat out of our eyes and attempt to keep your hair in check even post workout. (check out our fave from Lululemon)

#3: Waterproof mascara. Let’s be honest, we all want to look good when we are working out right? Whether you are at the gym or on a run, a little mascara to brighten up your eyes just gives you that extra confidence boost that might make you push a little harder. (check out this workout mascara by Clinique)

#2: Comfortable underwear! Whether you prefer briefs, girl shorts, thong, etc…make sure they are breathable, cotton and will last throughout your workout without making you have to constantly readjust.

But, the number one thing that every woman needs when she goes to work out is…

#1: A strong hair tie!!! If you can’t pull your hair back not only off your face (see mention of headband above), but also your neck…FORGET IT! Who can stand the feeling of sweaty hair, stuck to my sweaty skin? So throw a few extras in your gym bag in case one snaps (that’s the worst right???). We can all live without almost any of the above mentioned items, but without a hair tie, you might as well phone it in for the day! Check out these ones that last extra-long….