An efficient gym bag is essential to keeping your postworkout schedule intact. Whether you enjoy exercising during lunch or hit the gym after work, stash these items for quick transitions.

Maximize Your Workout

Shoes. Proper footwear is essential. The right shoes can help you avoid injuries—from blisters to shin splints. A pair of flip-flops or shower shoes is great to keep on hand for getting ready at the gym.

Clothes. Store T-shirts, shorts or tights, and socks to put on for your workout. Synthetic fabrics such as Coolmax, Lycra spandex, and a host of nylons will keep you warm in winter, dry in summer, and moving all year long. Shorts, sports bras, tights, and tops made of these materials wick moisture away from your body.

Look Great, Fast

Cleansing Cloths. Wash your face and body with premoistened cleansing cloths. They remove excess oil without stripping moisture from your skin for a quick, on-the-go fix.

Makeup and Toiletries. Create a personalized kit with products to suit your postworkout routine, such as toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and makeup essentials. Also, keep a tube of sunscreen on hand to keep your skin protected when exercising outdoors.

Hairbrush and bands. Keeping your hair back when you exercise is necessary—you don't want it in your face. Quick tip: To smooth out any kinks from ponytail holders, blow-dry, whether hair is damp with sweat or dry. The heat from the dryer will activate any styling products you used earlier that day. Avoid adding more—they may weigh hair down or make it look greasy.

Power Up

Water and Snacks. Keep energy high before, during, and after your workout with snacks that contain a healthy mix of protein and carbohydrates. For ideas, see "The Athlete's Pantry."

Fitness Journal. Try jotting down a few notes immediately after a workout. It'll help you track progress on your exercise goals.

Tunes. Studies show that listening to music enables you to work out longer and harder, so equip your gym bag with an iPod, Walkman, or MP3 player.