Posted on December 05, 2013 by Jenny Cromack

Getting to the gym can be difficult for most people whether it be lack of motivation or just a busy family life or work schedule. This means it is even more important to ensure that the time we do spend in the gym is cost effective and gets the results that we want.  With Christmas approaching it is a perfect to pop some fitness related presents on your wish list so here are the top 3 gym accessories I think are a must have and I will be certainly recommending to my personal training clients!

1)      A pair of new trainers

I honestly believe that one of the most important pieces of kit for the gym, running, sport and everyday life is a good quality pair of shoes. In our busy day to day lives we are up and about on our feet so they deserve the very best support and comfort.  The gym floor is definitely no exception. For all you keen runners out your trusty running shoes can soon clock up some mileage and those miles equal wear and tear. Continuing to run in a well worn old pair of trainers could result in a decline in performance or worse injury.  Research suggests that runners should invest in a new pair of trainers every 300- 400 miles. You can track this by logging your runs.

It is also important to ensure that you have a good pair of trainers on in the gym because again this can affect your performance or lead to injury.  Think of how many times you have worn your current pair of trainers and therefore how many squats, box jumps, mountain climbers and lunges they have completed!

So how do you know if you’re due a new pair of gym trainers? Take them off and look at the inside and outside of the sole. If it is worn down this is a sign that a new pair of trainers may be on your Christmas list as they will not be as efficient at absorbing shock. Also ensure that the trainer is not ripped or fraying anywhere this can to them not being supportive and therefore leading to trips, twists and sprains.

My advice to you would be to get gait analysis on your feet to ensure that you have a neutral lay of the foot. A lot of people pick trainers because they are the cheapest or look the best however these may not be appropriate for them. By having your gait checked you can ensure you buy trainers that are appropriate to ensure you compete to the best of your ability.  I would also recommend on purchasing a good quality pair of trainers they may be slightly more expensive however they will last longer and offer you better support and performance. We recommend Up and Running in Leeds for Gait Analysis – they provide a fantastic service. http://www.upandrunning.co.uk/leedscentral

2)     An IPod or Music Device

Although it is really nice to have friends and have a social element to the gym it is important to get in the zone and work hard in your workout out. Having an Ipod is a great way to shut out the outside work and get stuck into your workout. Loading it with songs that motivate you will give you that extra kick to row that extra 100 meters or get low for that extra squat. Even if you’re not into loud music research suggests that any music is beneficial as it takes your mind of the task in hand. I find music very beneficial to get me pumped and motivated!

3)     A Food and Exercise Diary

All successful training is executed with a detailed training plan. This allows you to log your workout and progress each session. By recording the weights you lifted or how far you ran as well as how you felt allows you to plan your next session and monitor your progress.  It is equally as important to log your food and fluid intake. To ensure you can keep an up to date record of everything you eat and drink. Getting yourself a food and exercise diary allows you to be organized, detailed and plan ahead to ensure that you reach your fitness goal.

You can get personalised diaries with pictures on for example a picture of someone you aspire to be like or a motivational quote. These are always good to keep you motivated.

If you want to complete and organized and effective gym plan whilst singing and dancing in some sparkly new trainers then I recommend adding one or all of these to your Christmas wish list this year.

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