Build A Heavy Lifting Wash Bag

The scourge of modern-day living is that we barely have enough time for a full workout, let alone a proper post-squat shower routine.

Just as combination exercises are great time-savers, dual-action grooming products can help avoid logging extra hours in the gym.

A 3-in-1 shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, plus a face cream that soothes, hydrates, and mattifies all in one go, will save time and space, making room for a high-quality hand cream that repairs the damage done by heavy lifting. And don’t forget some styling product so you leave not looking half as destroyed as you feel.

Cut The Cord

The body of research on workout music and the positive effect it has on #gains has swelled considerably in the last decade.

But this legal performance-enhancing drug can quickly have you testing positive for class A gym newb if your headphones get snagged on the squat rack or fall out after every burpee.

Cut the cord with a pair of wireless in- or over-ear headphones. Some of the best on the market even double up as fitness trackers or sync with coaching apps to give advice in real-time. So you can drop your PT and afford to splash out.

Don’t Just Sit There

If you take a minute’s rest between each 40-second set, then most of your session is spent sat down.

Rather than using this time to admire your new trainers or workout pants, work smarter by training opposing muscles in supersets – pair a chest exercise with a back move, then perform one set of each before resting. You give your muscles time to recover and use your time more effectively.

If you struggle with mobility, switch to ‘active’ rest periods. Avoid the temptation to check Instagram and instead stretch out tight hamstrings or hip flexors. You’ll knock off that 20-minute flexibility session you always ignore – and look like a pro who doesn’t waste time.