Personal Trainer Reveals His Top 5 Wellness Products

Carl’s Top Gear & Wellness Essentials

As a personal trainer, I’m often asked what tools I use to stay on track outside of the gym. Whether it’s tracking a workout, sharpening my mind, or optimizing recovery, these are the essentials that help me—and can help you—maintain a high-performance lifestyle.

Apple Watch (Series 4)

To be honest, I wasn’t always convinced I needed a smartwatch. However, after using the Apple Watch for several months, it has proven to be an invaluable asset to my coaching and personal training. The health and activity tracking are top-notch—and as a trainer, I’m a sucker for stats and metrics. I find it most useful during high-intensity sessions: timing rest periods, controlling my music without grabbing my phone, and monitoring my heart rate in real-time are all far more streamlined with this on my wrist. It’s a great tool for anyone serious about quantifying their progress.

Brilliant (Mobile App)

Physical fitness is only half the battle; I’m a firm believer in mental conditioning as well. For a long time, I used basic puzzles to stay sharp, but I eventually realized I was only training one specific type of logic.

The Brilliant app changed my approach. It offers short, interactive courses on maths and science that challenge my problem-solving skills and teach me useful new concepts. It’s the perfect way to keep the brain as active as the body during a commute or a morning break.

Water Purification (Distiller & Shower Filter)

We all know the body is roughly 60% to 70% water, but we often overlook the quality of that water. Hydration is the cornerstone of recovery, and I’ve become very intentional about what I consume and what my skin absorbs.

I currently use a water distiller and a high-quality chlorine filter in my shower. While the specific brand or method is up to you, the goal remains the same: reducing contaminants to ensure your body is fueled by the purest water possible. It’s a small change that makes a massive difference in how you feel daily.

Sundried Training Vests

Quality kit matters. My Sundried training tanks have been staples in my gym bag for years. As a trainer, I look for gear that is durable, but I also value ethical and sustainable production. Sundried’s activewear aligns with my commitment to a conscious lifestyle. These vests have seen me through years of training, including my transition to a plant-based diet. They are proof that you don't have to compromise on performance to wear ethical, eco-friendly clothing.

Bedtime (iPhone Clock App)

This is a "hidden gem" that many people overlook. In the iPhone Clock app, the Bedtime feature allows you to set your wake-up time and specify exactly how many hours of sleep you need.

It might seem simple, but the consistent reminders and integration with health tracking apps have been a game-changer for my recovery. For any of my clients looking to increase morning productivity, I always recommend starting here. Better sleep leads to better workouts—period.