(BlackDoctor.org) — So you showed up to the gym, all ready to get your calorie burning and muscle-building game on, only to discover that you forgot your gym shoes. Or your socks. Or your lock. Should you just give up working out for the day, or is there another solution?
1. Sports Bra
Forgetting your sports bra is enough to ruin any workout, and most women have definitely done this. But, before you give up and go home, know that there are workouts you can still do (but others that should always be avoided). Keep in mind that lack of proper support from a sports bra can cause pain, elasticity loss, and stretch marks. Wearing your regular bra, choose low-impact activities that are not going to cause much, if any, bounce. Weightlifting, yoga, and walking on the treadmill are all good bets.
2. Gym Lock
Never leave your belongings in an unlocked gym locker. Gym theft does happen, and when your things are stolen from an unsecured locker, most gyms will not cover the loss. While it may be annoying, bring your belongings with you onto the gym floor. Stash your bag next to the machine you’re working out on; if you’re taking a class, leave your bag against a wall where you can see it.
3. Shoes
Unless you are a seasoned barefoot runner, forgetting your shoes is a real pain. Shoes help to offer stability and support during workouts while also offering protection during weightlifting. Throw on a pair of socks and choose activities that don’t require a ton of ankle support or require your feet to move in a constant repetitive motion (like the treadmill). See if there are any group fitness classes that you can take like yoga, Pilates, and barre, where going barefoot is the norm. Another option is to wear the shoes you came in — if they are flats — and hop on a seated stationery bike or stair-stepper where feet remain still.
4. Socks
No socks, huh? If you’re already wearing a regular pair, then you’re just going to have to be that girl or guy on the treadmill in their trouser socks. But if you showed up sans socks, it’s time to change your strategy. While you can wear your shoes without socks, you’re likely to get blisters if you choose any sort of high-intensity workout — especially if you sweat a lot. To avoid stinking up your shoes and getting a bunch of blisters, choose to strength train for the day. Or, better yet, opt to take yoga or pilates.
5. Pants
Well…unless you’re with a friend who packed an extra pair, you should probably just go home. But notice that we didn’t say don’t work out! Once you’re home, change into your workout gear and do a home workout, including following a fitness DVD, lifting some dumbbells, or going for a run or walk outside.
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