As someone who is easily influenced, I have spent a lot of my time (and money!) trying out gym accessories. From shoes to water bottles to wrist straps, I have certainly tried it all! I have created a definitive list of must-haves for the gym, starting with what you need to get started and progressing to what you need as you become more advanced.
Beginners: You're just starting at the gym - what do you need?
Flat, comfortable shoes with a wide toe box: I think this is one of the most, if not the most, important things a new gym-goer needs to start their fitness journey. Having a flat shoe is critical to developing balance and coordination during your lifting sessions. We all love our Hokas, but they should not be the shoes that you lift in. They have too much cushion on the bottom and create an unstable base when performing weightlifting exercises. Also, your shoes should not be too narrow (sorry Converse!) to allow for your toes to spread and grip the ground. My all time favorite lifting shoe is the Reebok Nanos. They run a half size big, so consider sizing down, but otherwise the style and function of these shoes is hard to beat.
Socks with compression and anti-slip: Now that we've established that you need a good pair of shoes, you should invest in a quality pair of socks. Buying socks that are meant for an active lifestyle, that provide the right amount of compression where you need it, but are not restrictive for your toes is essential. I am obsessed with Feetures socks. They have turned into the only socks that I will wear for working out.
Intermediate: You've gotten past the basics, how can you elevate your workouts? In addition to the above, here's how to step up your game:
Barbell pad: Now you should absolutely not be using a barbell pad for your squats, but when you are getting heavier on your hip thrusts, the pads your gym provides may not cut it anymore. I personally always BYO barbell pad because I know what I need to make sure my hips are protected. Not to mention its always available (and clean!). The barbell pad I've been using is the Dark Iron Fitness Barbell Pad. This one is small but mighty and has a full length velcro (you'll thank me later!).
Wrist straps: Don't get me wrong, it is important to build up your grip strength, but as you get stronger, it is inevitable that your strength in other areas will surpass your grip strength. My take on this is: Don't let your grip strength be a limiting factor to your workouts. You can continue to train your grip strength, but wrist straps will help you out in the meantime. I have been using the Harbinger Lifting Straps for the last few years, and they have never let me down. Bonus points because they come in pink!
(More) Advanced: You've gotten the hang of the gym and you're a regular. You're ready to shell out more money for quality, functional gym accessories.
Lifting belt: I generally don't recommend a lifting belt to anyone until they have figured out a bracing technique without one. But if you have practiced bracing in your heavy lifts and your core and lower back have become a limiting factor to your heavy lifts, it may be time to add a lifting belt. I repeat: this is for more advanced gym goers and should not be used as a crutch if you have not already developed a proper lifting technique. There are many options out there, but a moderately priced and functional belt is the Element Lifting Belt.
Lifting shoes: There are very few people that I think will even get to the point that will actually need lifting shoes. If you are just lifting for longevity or aesthetics, you may not ever need them. Lifting shoes provide a slight heel and a sturdy base for deadlifts and squats.
I'd be remiss if I didn't provide a suggestion for a gym bag. I actually use a backpack as its easier on my back and has adjustable water bottle holders. I've been using the North Face Borealis since high school and I'd still give it a 10/10 all these years later.
Now there are so many other gym accessories out there (mini bands, ab rollers, gliders, etc.) that can be nice to have, but would not make it onto my must-have list. If you have any other accessories that have been added to your must-have list, let me know!!
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