Some advice you will hear frequently is to pack your bags before a race. That way you will be sure that you do not forget anything, and you will be ready to go without having to waste a lot of time in the morning. This advice applies equally well to any morning workout, especially if you are not working out at home. If you are working out at home, laying out your clothes will keep you from fumbling around in the dark or waking anybody up unnecessarily.

The important thing, however, is to not trust that you packed your bags correctly. Before you leave in the morning, look through the bag to make sure that it has everything that you are expecting to see. For example, make sure that you have more than one shoe packed in your gym bag.

This morning, I got to the gym and was half changed into my workout clothes before I realized that I only brought one sneaker with me. Luckily, I did not spot my black work shoes this morning and wore a different pair of sneakers, so I just kept those on for the workout. But it is very aggravating when you get somewhere and you do not have something that either prevents you from workout out altogether or else just makes it not as enjoyable of an experience.

Things to eyeball and make sure you have might include:

• Training log
• Wrist watch
• Appropriate clothing, such as shorts and t-shirt
• Socks and shoes
• A dry towel
• A got-lucky bag (aka a travel or toiletry bag) with soap and deoderant, etc
• Flip flops, if you are paranoid about public showers (like I am)
• Clothes to change into afterwards, if you wear your gym clothes there

The shoes were not a problem, but it is never fun to realize you forgot clean underwear or do not have a towel with you. So while packing your bags the night before is always a great idea, be sure to check your work before you actually walk out the door.