Alright, let me share something I’ve figured out over the years, mostly the hard way. Packing for wrestling. Sounds simple, right? But man, the times I’ve shown up missing something crucial… It’s the worst feeling, especially before a tough practice or, heaven forbid, a tournament. You feel like a rookie all over again.
So, after forgetting my headgear one too many times and having my ears rubbed raw, or realizing I didn’t have a spare shirt after sweating through the first one during warm-ups, I got serious about packing my bag. It became a ritual, almost. Gotta share how I do it now, maybe it helps someone else avoid that panic.
My Pre-Practice Ritual: Getting the Bag Ready
I usually pack my bag the night before or at least a few hours ahead, not scrambling last minute. Rushing is how you forget stuff. First thing I do is grab my actual wrestling gear.
- Wrestling Shoes: Obvious, yeah? But I check ’em. Make sure the laces aren’t about to snap. I put these in first, usually at the bottom of the bag.
- Headgear: This is crucial. Learned that lesson painfully. I make sure the straps are good and just toss it in right on top of the shoes.
- Knee Pads: My knees aren’t getting any younger. Even if you’re young, save yourself the trouble later. I wear one, usually, but I pack both just in case. Sometimes I lend one out.
- Singlet(s): If it’s practice, maybe just workout clothes. But if it’s for a meet or intense drilling, I pack my singlet. Always pack a spare if you can, especially for tournaments. You get sweaty, sometimes stuff rips. Better safe than sorry.
Beyond the Basics: The Stuff You Regret Forgetting
Okay, so the core gear is in. But the practice doesn’t end when you step off the mat. There’s the before and after to think about too.
- Workout Clothes: I always pack a clean t-shirt and shorts/sweats to wear for warm-ups or if we’re doing conditioning off the mat. Sometimes I just wear these to practice instead of a singlet.
- Socks: A few extra pairs. Seriously. Sweaty feet are gross, and changing into dry socks after practice feels amazing. Plus, sometimes they just vanish, you know? Like laundry Gnomes.
- Towel: A small one at least. For sweat during practice, or if you’re lucky enough to have showers nearby. Nobody wants to drip dry.
- Water Bottle: Hydration, man. Can’t stress this enough. I fill mine up before I leave the house. Gotta have water readily available right there matside.
- Soap/Body Wash: If showering at the facility, essential. Skin infections are no joke in wrestling. Gotta wash off right away. I use a travel-size bottle.
- Change of Clothes: Clean clothes to wear home. Don’t be the person driving home still in sweaty gear. Just feels better to be clean and dry.
- Flip-Flops or Sandals: For walking around before/after, especially in locker rooms or showers. Keep those feet clean and avoid picking up anything nasty.
The Little Extras (That Make a Big Difference)
These are things I’ve added over time that just make life easier.
- Athletic Tape & Pre-Wrap: For fingers, wrists, ankles… you never know when you’ll need a quick tape job. Saved me or a teammate plenty of times.
- Small First-Aid Kit: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, maybe some pain relief balm. Minor cuts and scrapes happen.
- Mouthguard: If you use one (recommended!), don’t forget it or its case.
- Snack: Like a protein bar or a banana for after practice. Helps with recovery.
- Plastic Bag: For wet/sweaty clothes. Keeps the stink contained and away from the dry stuff in your bag. Trust me on this one.
So yeah, that’s pretty much my system. I lay it all out, check it off mentally, then pack it up methodically. Takes maybe 10 minutes, but saves a ton of potential hassle later. Get a routine, stick to it, and you’ll be golden. Nothing worse than being unprepared when it’s time to grind.
