let's dish: what are your workout must-haves?

After my sister forced me to down some Propel powdered-water and then go for a 3-mile sprint yesterday, I've been thinking about pre-workout preparation. I was never one for it but lately I've noticed I've become a bit more Jennifer-Lopez-diva about my demands. Like, I need those solid black hair ties and a bobby pin for my hair. If it's windy out, I need my lulelemon headband to cover my ears. (A trail-running friend recently told me about a mountain lion sighting that makes me think I now need a dog too.) I hate wearing hats or sunglasses while I run, as well as not having fresh music on my iPhone. If my exercise requirements aren't met, it brings out an OCD-level of frustration that ruins the entire effort and makes me miserable. Gosh, now that I say this outloud, I'm a freak. 

What about you? Do you have a pre-workout regimen you follow religiously? Special socks or sports bra you absolutely can't exercise without? Or do you just hit the gym straight after a cheeseburger and in whatever you're wearing that day?

Comments

[saskatch]

I need new shoes badly. If my feet are uncomfortable, I'm like, THAT IS IT, and I huff around doing a half-ass workout. That, and two sports bras (I canNOT run when the girls are bouncing all over the place). A headband is key, too. Lately, I've been running sans iPod and it's actually nice. Instead, I listen to the crashing waves, birds, and my incessant monkey mind.

[Ashley]

I have noticed that I have become a ritual fanatic! I used to be able to run out of the house, sometimes without even shoes. Now, oh my. I have to have my music and the right headphones. I need a few sips of water and a quick pee check. If I am really running, I need gum. It is kinda ridiculous. I think it is because working out has become painful so I have to make it as comfortable as possible. When I was in great shape, I didn't need all this.

[maameemoomoo]

I just need my pink baby G watch. Period.