A Former Olympian Shares the Items She Always Keeps in Her Gym Bag

Gym Bag Essentials

Photo:

Nastia Liukin

Nastia Liukin has spent most of her life with a gym bag in tow. Though the Olympic gold medalist has since traded in her gymnastics leotard for leggings and sneakers, her enthusiasm for fitness hasn't waned whatsoever. ("Working and living a healthy and active lifestyle brings me joy and energizes me every day," she tells us.)

Suffice to say that Liukin has the art of strategically packing her workout essentials down to a science. From the sweatproof makeup products that got her through years of competition to her go-to post-gym outfit, she names her must-haves below.

"Neutrogena's makeup wipes are perfect for not only taking your sweat and dirt off but also all makeup, including waterproof mascaras. I also swear by Scunsi hair ties ($3) and New Balance sneakers (I just got a pair for my birthday, and it literally makes running a whole different experience). I always have a snack in my bag too. Whether it’s a bag of almonds or an organic honey crisp apple (the best!), it’s always good to have something in your bag so you can snack before or after your workout. 

"When I was training for the Olympics, I didn’t wear any makeup, but for competitions I definitely wore some. L’Oréal's waterproof mascara was my go-to, along with a little gold eye shadow (for good luck!) and some clear lipgloss. I also love Bare Minerals' powder foundation ($29)."

"I’m obsessed with the athleisure look and just love that it’s so in right now. I spent my entire life in leotards and leggings and tops, so now I love that I can wear it out of the gym too. My go-to look from a Pilates class to a brunch is a pair of leggings with a crop top, wedge sneakers, and a bomber. So easy, yet so stylish!"

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