I’m a certified gym rat and these are all the essentials I swear by

Best for: Blocking out the noise

More often than not, the gym is blasting music from some random playlist they put together years ago. So, investing in noise-cancelling headphones is arguably the most important step in ensuring your time at the gym is well spent. 

The AirPods Pro 2 in particular are my favoured choice – small enough to fit in your gym bag yet sturdy enough to stay in your ears for the entirety of your workout.

Key features:

• Active Noise Cancellation, Adaptive Audio and Transparency mode
• Personalised Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking
• Loud Sound Reduction, Conversation Boost and Background Sounds

Also available at:

• $344 from Amazon
• $339 from Kogan
• $339 from Dick Smith

Best for: Tracking your water intake

It’s a universal struggle, but hitting your water intake goals doesn’t have to be impossible. Since this 2L water bottle from Tupperware landed on my desk, drinking more water has never been easier.

I credit it all to the time markers on the side which keeps me on a drinking schedule, and also to the Flexi-Straw that lets me sip comfortably all day.

Key features:

• Time markers
• Flexi-Straw
• Ergonomic, one-handed grip design

Best for: Leggings that are (actually) flattering

I’ve tried plenty of leggings in my time, and none have ever fit me as well as the Amplify Gravity Leggings from Alphalete. They cling to your every curve and feel silky smooth on the skin.

Sizes: XXS to XXL

Colours: 9 variations

Key features:

• Seamless knit
• 25″ inseam
• High compression waistband

Best for: A basic sports bra

I’m a big believer that finding the motivation and confidence to take yourself to the gym lies in your outfit. After all, you’re more likely to leave the house if your outfit is cute enough.

So, finding the perfect sports bra is super important, and this one from Doyoueven ticks all the boxes when it comes to style, affordability and support.

Sizes: XS to XXL

Key features:

• Multi-directional stretch
• Moisture wicking fabric
• Removable cups

Best for: A universal shoe

After seeing all the girls on TikTok rave about the New Balance 530, I decided to buy a pair for myself and it’s been the greatest purchase of 2024 so far.

They’re comfortable, trendy and go with just about any outfit so I can head to brunch after Pilates without looking out of place.

Sizes: 6 to 16.5

Colours: Over 10 variations

Key features:

• Padded mesh outer
• Lace-up opening
• Sleek silver panelling

Also available at:

• $160 from New Balance
• $159.99 from Platypus
• $159.99 from Hype DC

Best for: Maintaining gym etiquette

Wiping down the equipment after you’ve used it is a vital step in maintaining gym hygiene, not to mention overall etiquette.

This microfibre sports towel in particular is lightweight and absorbent so you don’t have to break a sweat over leaving a mess.

Key features:

• Moisture-wicking
• Comes with a drawstring carry bag

Best for: Socks with stability

If you like to mix up your workout routine with the odd Pilates or yoga class, grip socks will be an absolute game-changer.

These crew-length socks not only look cute, but they feature a higher density of grips to ensure you don’t slip on the Pilates mat or reformer carriage.

Sizes: S to M

Key features:

• Wrap-around ribbing and high-stretch cuff
• Arch compression to cradle your feet and alleviate foot fatigue
• Reinforced cotton fabric for extra durability