On my days off from the hospital I like to burn off some steam. Everyone turns to different things, but I like to turn to fitness. It is one of the best ways to take care of your mind, body, and soul. That being said, burning off steam comes with a lot, I mean a lot of sweat. I have spent an unusually long time perfecting what I keep in my gym bag because lets be honest, no one goes right home to shower right after working out (if someone is telling you they do, they are lying). We multi-task! Post gym we run errands, get coffee, and hustle around to appointments! My favorite workout (which I might be bias about) is the SALT 45 class in Tiverton, RI at SALT Cycle Studio. I’ve got everything you need to freshen up after class so none of these things have to take a back seat.

Shower in a tote bag

After lots of trial and error I have come up with a susinct list of just what you need to pull yourself together after these intense sweat sessions, and some of my other fitness favorites. The Pacifica face wipes and underarm wipes are a must. They smell amazing, leave you feeling refreshed, and don’t leave behind an oily residue. I am a real sucker for good branding and The Honey Pot Company has got it going on. They are a plant based product made for women by women because as they say, “it takes one to know one”. Whether your skin is dry from the summer sun, or the dry winter air, giving yourself back moisture is key! As a fan of strong independent women, I love supporting Bitchstix and their mission to support survivors of domestic abuse and sexual assault. Their chapstick is extra all the way around from the minimalist label, the high quality organic ingredients, and the essential oils that give them the perfect amount of “flavor”.

A Wetbrush has proven to be the only thing I can get through my hair without breakage and can be found just about anywhere. The invisible solid deodorant by Mitchum keeps me smelling like roses even after my workout is done. I always keep a few different options of granola bars in my bag to grab after class. At SALT Cycle we always have a fresh stock of Fully Rooted fresh pressed juices which is my favorite thing to reach for after class. I have always avoided store bought juice for fear of the sugar, but with these I know there is nothing in them but the good stuff. This season the “Apple Pie” is my go to. Wednesday is our delivery day so make sure to check them out. I use my Apolis city tote for everything, including as my gym bag because it represents all of my favorite places, can fit so many things, and was a gift from a dear friend. Most of my gear is LuluLemon. Our local location here in Newport is perfectly curated and has such friendly and knowledgeable employees. I have always been happy with the quality of their clothing, and high waisted leggings and a crop top have become my uniform. The “High Times” in black are my favorite tight because for a shorty like me they hit at just the right place on my ankle. To top off the bag, I pack my cycling shoes from New Balance. They are so comfortable and the location of the SPD clips allows me to jump off the bike and walk around the studio with confidence that I won’t fall down.

Last fall I was all but knocking down the doors to SALT Cycle when they were getting ready to run their first week of classes. After meeting the ladies behind this inspirational studio, I knew I wanted more. Last December I started instructing at SALT Cycle, and I dare you to find a better feeling that can rival being up on the podium, lights down, salt lamps up, leading a pack of riders in an on point “tap-back”. Kayla and Cassidy (that badass babe beside me) have taught me so much, and given me the best gift of being able to make each ride an experience for our clients.

You might be wondering how this relates to The New England Gangster? When I travel I always try to find a local studio to check out. Its a great way to get a sense of the people in the community and to get a workout in so you might not feel so bad indulging while away.  Have this bag packed with you and you’ll be ready to keep exploring after sweating it out!

Until next time, stay gangster.