What’s in Your Gym Bag

Despite his busy schedule, Dr Lim Kok Bin, Specialist in Urology & Consultant, Raffles UroRenal Centre, goes to the gym near Raffles Hospital two times a week during his lunch hour to stay in the prime of health. He shares with HealthNews on what he brings to the gym and why.

One: Bag

Choose a sturdy bag. As my bag can get quite heavy, I use a backpack for better back support.

Two: Water bottle

It’s important to rehydrate before, during and after the workout. I keep a 700ml bottle. A rough rule-of-the-thumb is to drink a glass of water for every 15 minutes of work out. Another useful measurement is to drink whenever you feel thirsty.

Three: Towel

The gym provides a towel but I bring my own hand towel to wipe my perspiration from the workout. It is basic courtesy to clean the equipment before the next user.

Four: Toiletries

I’m a simple man. Just some shower foam, a comb and hair wax for the clean-doctor-look after the workout, and I’m all set to go.

Five: Plastic bag

This separates my clean stuff from my dirty stuff. I use it after the workout to store my soiled clothes.

Six: Comfy clothing

I opt for comfort over style when it comes to my gym wear. I usually don a simple t-shirt and a pair of shorts, nothing fancy or expensive.

Seven: Heart rate monitor

This is a must-have for my gym gear. I use it to measure my exercise intensity. It allows me to maximise my gym session, as it gives me faster progress and less wasted effort. It motivates me sometimes to work harder to surpass my past record.

Eight: Gloves

My gloves are a useful repertoire whenever I do my weights in the gym. They give me a better grip and help prevent sore palms. A well-fitting pair is important.