After Months of Testing, These Are the Best Fitness Gifts Our Team Is Buying in 2026
Many of us have a friend, partner, or family member who swears by their New Year’s Day run, channels their inner Zeus or Athena through long sessions at the gym, or lives for heart-pumping dance classes because they bring them so much joy (check all three for me!).
Or perhaps they are eager to start their fitness journey but don’t know where to begin.
A gift acknowledging the role fitness plays in your loved ones’ lives is a thoughtful gesture that shows you care — and helps them continue to enjoy the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.
As journalists and editors specializing in physical, emotional, and mental health, our team of health enthusiasts enjoy staying up to date with the latest wellness tools to help us enhance our lifestyles.
We tested more than 400 gifts and selected the best ones for fitness lovers. We approached the process like true gear nerds, assessing functionality, comfort, durability, ease of use, and overall value.
We took notes on how each product held up over time, how it felt during use, and whether it genuinely made exercise more enjoyable or effective. Here are the gifts that made the cut.
Apparel
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For the Barefoot Runner
Xero Shoes HFS II Lightweight Road Runner
Barefoot shoes, like Xero’s HFS II Lightweight Road Runner, tend to have a cult following. They have no drop between the heel and the toe and have a very thin sole: “They call it ‘highly flexible,’ and it’s supposed to help you move your foot in a natural way,” says editorial director Simone Scully.
Like other barefoot shoe brands, Xero prides itself on facilitating a more natural motion for the feet. “They’re also very lightweight, which is nice when you’re running. They have a wide toe base, which means you can spread your toes nicely,” Scully adds.
Just keep in mind that not every gait and foot type are suitable for this style of shoe. Check with your giftee to see if they’ve tried a shoe like this before.

For the Hiker Who Wants to Feel More Grounded
Xero Shoes Ridgeway Retro-Inspired Waterproof Hiker
Help your giftee get grounded with the Ridgeway Retro-Inspired Waterproof Hiker. These barefoot-style hiking boots have a zero-drop sole, a wide toe box, and are low to the ground, allowing for a more natural foot strike and connection to the earth.
Again, note that not every foot and gait type work well for barefoot-style, zero-drop shoes. But if you know your giftee favors them, this is a winner.
The boots “look really cool,” says Scully. “I like the vintage-inspired design for the hiking boot. It also has decent ankle support, which would make me feel more comfortable when hiking on rocky terrain or in Shenandoah National Park.”

For When She Needs Support
Nike Indy High-Support Padded Adjustable Sports Bra
Whether she’s sprinting, walking the dog, or playing a round of beach volleyball, the Nike Indy High-Support Sports Bra will give her support as she moves throughout her day. This bra is made from recycled poly with dri-fit technology that touts extra sweat-wicking for the ultimate sweat sesh. It boasts a compressive fit that’s also supportive, too.
“I would absolutely recommend this bra to a friend,” says writer and runner Lindsay Modglin. “It’s comfortable and feels durable and versatile.” It’s also padded and adjustable, so she can dial into the perfect fit.
The Nike Indy High-Support Sports Bra comes in sizes XS to 2XL and is available in black, white, pink, and a vibrant two-tone green. Lastly, it’s washing machine–friendly, which we love.
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For the Cold-Weather Runner
Planet Nusa T1 Thermal Tights
For the runner who’s determined not to miss a training session because of the season, these thermal tights are ideal. They’re soft, supportive, and built to lock in warmth without overheating — excellent for early-morning miles or long winter training runs.
In my testing, I’ve loved how lightweight, formfitting, and sleek they are. They’re moderately compressive, giving me a streamlined feel and taking the pressure off my joints. They’re also comfy, have reflective details, and stay in place as I move. These are one of my favorite winter workout wear items.

For the Strength Trainer Who Craves Better Footing
VivoBareFoot Motus Strength II Women’s
Maintaining a solid grounding while squatting with weights is key for good form and support. The thin 2-millimeter (mm) sole of the VivoBareFoot Motus Strength II is made from 98 percent recycled polyurethane foam. It’s designed to provide traction and footing while weight training. It touts a natural barefoot feel, so your feet connect better with the ground. The wider sole base may improve overall foot support, balance, and posture.
Writer Esme Benjamin loved wearing these at the gym, especially during strength training: “The wide toe and barefoot-style sole made it really easy to balance, and I could spread my toes and really press my foot solidly into the ground as I performed exercises like single-leg RDLs and lunges while holding heavy dumbbells.”
The shoes come in several hues, including a dark eclipse or an attractive white with pink accents, so you can easily match with your favorite workout gear. These shoes are certainly “worthwhile for training days,” Benjamin adds. “I feel so much more stable now while lifting heavy loads.”
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For the Cold-Weather Golfer
Heathlander Men’s Wind Sweater
Merino wool is known for its temperature-regulating properties — when it’s chilly out, it’ll keep you toasty. On warmer days, it will prevent you from overheating. This feature is what writer Raki Swanson says is best about the Heathlander Men’s Wind Sweater, alongside the brand’s vibrant color palette and the fact that it doesn’t restrict your movement.
“The material inside the jacket is not too stiff, so you can swing in it,” she says. “I really like that.” The jacket is great for the green but would also be an excellent choice for everyday wear, making it a versatile gift.

For Her Next Round
Heathlander Golf Shoe
This gift is the equivalent of a hole in one. The Heathlander Golf Shoe is well constructed, lightweight, weatherproof, and made of exceptionally high-quality materials.“This is truly an amazing gift,” Swanson says. “There is a lot of support on the heel when swinging the golf club when putting — it feels like you’re in clouds.” You can also feel the slope of the green better in this shoe, she notes.
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For Your Sister Who Loves Trail Cycling
Slickrock Drirelease Long-Sleeve Tech T-Shirt
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, and your sister took the road less traveled — because you gifted her the proper cycling attire. Designed for warm-weather trail rides, this lightweight, long-sleeve tee is cooling, comfortable, and convenient for stashing snacks and small essentials during long loops. The Drirelease fabric wicks moisture and dries quickly, while body-mapped mesh zones enhance airflow during high-intensity efforts. “It’s soft and comfortable,” says editor Olivia Campbell.
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For the Snowboarder
Icebreaker Merino 200 ZoneKnit Long-Sleeve Crew Baselayer Top
The Icebreaker Merino 200 ZoneKnit Long-Sleeve Crew Baselayer Top will keep your snowboarding friend toasty on the slopes with temperature-regulating merino wool. It’s got raglan sleeves to keep arms moving freely, is designed to enhance breathability during intense activity, and has flat seams to reduce the chances of friction and chafing.
“I’d definitely recommend it to an outdoorsy, fitness-forward person who gets cold easily,” says editor Ally Hirschlag. “It’s great for layering, comfortable, and cozy, plus moisture-wicking.”

For the Hiking Enthusiast
Backcountry Bike Shorts
While technically designed for cycling, the Backcountry Bike Shorts are ideal for any woman who wants to hit the trail and feel comfy and dry.
Made from a lightweight, four-way stretch fabric that moves with you, the shorts are breathable, quick-drying, and durable enough for rocky climbs or long summer treks.
“I would have loved them when hiking in Alaska and Canada over the summer on my vacation,” says writer Jessica Migala. “They seem great for a wilderness adventure.”
The 7-inch inseam offers just the right amount of coverage without feeling restrictive, and the adjustable waistband keeps them snug as you move.

For the Female Runner in Your Life
Asics Novablast 5
Give the running enthusiast in your life love at first run. From nearly the moment testing began, the springy Asics Novablast 5 swiftly snagged top spot as my all-time favorite running shoe.
I didn’t know a pair could have such cloudlike comfort: They make me want to hit the pavement even on my laziest days. Their extra-plush midsole reduces shock from hitting hard pavement while propelling me forward, making my runs much easier.
And while all of that padding could have made them bulky and heavy, they have a featherlight feel, and their flexible, breathable upper gives my feet and toes plenty of space to splay.
Finally, they’re cute and true to size. While my other kicks have been languishing in the closet, I just can’t bring myself to wear anything but these on my regular runs.
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For the All-Weather Walker
Duluth Trading’s Women’s Flexpedition Lined Straight Leg Pants
The Flexpedition Lined Straight Leg Pants will be well loved by anyone who doesn’t let the weather stop them from getting outside. They’re warm, water resistant, and have an inner lining of fleecy fabric that keeps you toasty without making you feel like you’re wearing two layers, Scully says.
“These are great for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors in the winter,” she reports. “For example, these would be ideal for my sister, who watches her son play hockey during the school year. Also, these don’t obviously look like they’re fleece-lined or snow pants.”
Workout Gear and Equipment

BODi Subscription
The gift of fitness is the gift that keeps on giving. If you have a loved one who prefers to work out at home and likes to try different types of exercise, a BODi subscription is just the thing. Editor Lili Ladaga has a membership and loves it because it challenges her with all kinds of workouts.
“So far, I’ve done Barre Blend (ballet/Pilates), LIIFT4 (strength training), and a few cardio-based programs. (Pro tip: The shorter the workout duration, the harder it is; I still have nightmares about T:25.),” she says. BODi even has bike workouts, so if you have a stationary bike sitting idle, dust it off and try Bike 1 with trainer Jennifer Jacobs.
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For the Ultra Busy Spouse
Echelon Connect EX-5s-22
Making time for workout classes or the gym can feel impossible. Bring studio-quality classes to your loved one’s living room with this luxury buy. With a 22-inch HD touch screen, ventilated competition seat, and 32 resistance levels, the Echelon Connect EX-5s-22 has all the bells and whistles. To make the most of it, you’ll want to purchase an Echelon membership ($399 per year).
“I like being able to get a nearly custom workout from home,” writer Mary Sauer says. ”I can choose the type of music I want to listen to, how long I want to work out, and my goals for working out: high intensity, low intensity, strength, etc. There is also a nice community aspect to this equipment. If you attend the live classes, the instructors start to learn your name and talk with you during class.”

For Your Brother With Limited Space
Bowflex Results Series 552 SelectTech Dumbbells
These adjustable dumbbells pack a full weight rack into a single, space-saving design — ideal for someone in cramped quarters.
With the turn of a dial, you can go from 5 to 52.5 pounds (lbs), swapping weights for different exercises without cluttering your space.
“These dumbbells can be used by a wide range of fitness levels as they have a wide range of weights,” says Campbell. “It’s easy to adjust the mechanism to change how much weight is on the dumbbell, so it’s seamless to go from one user to another.”

For the Bodybuilder
Bowflex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell
Kettlebells are ringing in the new year! Make pumping iron more convenient with this adjustable kettlebell, which can replace up to six standard kettlebells.
This gift supports full-body workouts — swings, presses, squats — without needing a rack full of gear. With the turn of the dial, it ramps up from 8 to 40 lbs in seconds.
“It’s great for ramping up your weight amount or for households where there are many members who are at different fitness levels and you need to be able to quickly and easily adjust the weight amount,” Campbell says.

For the Fitness Junkie Who Has It All
Lifepro Hovert 3D Vibration Plate
With 99 speed levels and eight preset programs, you can mix things up every day, from gentle circulation boosts to full-on strength sessions.
“I cannot stress enough how amazing this piece of equipment is,” Swanson says. “Everyone needs one of these in their life. They help with lymphatic drainage, they give you a workout, you feel so much better when using them, and you can use them in such a variety of ways.”

For the Indoor Rower
Hydrow Arc Rower
When your favorite oarsperson can’t get out on the bay, bring the erg to them with the Hydrow Arc Rower and enjoy rowing indoors all year long. The Arc Rower features advanced performance technology for a full-body workout with real-time metric tracking so they can measure every stroke and effort.
Swanson was immediately impressed with the feel, function, and design of the erg, especially the 24-inch touchscreen, comfortable seat, and a handle that kept her hands blister-free. The ride “is smooth,” she says, and the “drag is very much like rowing on water.”
Hydrow offers an optional membership subscription, which includes a personal coaching session, live rows and races, and access to numerous classes, including HIIT and strength training. Your pal can stay on track with personal goals and earn badges for milestones as they row merrily along in the comfort of their own home.
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For the Spouse Who’s Committed to Daily Workouts
Pvolve Signature Bundle
Got a loved one who is pressed for time but wants to commit to a regular routine? The Pvolve Signature Bundle may just be the perfect gift pick. The bundle comes with a band, ball, and mat that all support a full-body, low-impact workout incorporating strength, stability, and flexibility training. The subscription gets you one month of access to the Pvolve streaming platform and a one-on-one consultation with a trainer to get started.
“I like that I can do this from home on my own time, whether I have 20 minutes or an hour,” says editor Ashley Ziegler. “I genuinely feel like I get a solid workout from the classes, and I don’t typically feel that way when I’m doing classes from home with other styles of workouts (yoga, barre, etc.). It’s also under $30 a month, and you can’t beat that!”

For Kettlebell Newbies
WeGym Soft Kettlebells
The WeGym Soft Kettlebells are ideal for kettlebell newbies and accident-prone exercisers. It has a unique soft outer shell, meaning you’ll feel safer during those wood chops, and the wide, nonslip handle provides a comfortable grip. The kettlebells are filled with a fine steel sand that evenly distributes weight, lowers impact (goodbye, bruising), and softens the landing, so your floors will thank you.
We like the various weight options — 10, 15, 20, 25 lbs — and the serene hues of rose, forest, and sandstone are aesthetically pleasing. “I’ve never used kettlebells at home because I was afraid of damaging my floors (or my toes),” says Ladaga, but these kettlebells “delivered on their promise and didn’t harm my wood floors.”

For When She Needs to Boost Her Dance Cardio Routine
Bala Bangles
These wearable weights make working out as easy as flicking the wrist. These cute and versatile ankle and wrist bangles can make working out a possibility, even for your most time-pressed loved ones.
In my testing, I’ve transformed mundane, unavoidable activities like running errands or doing laundry into mini strength training seshes. I also love adding them to my daily mini belly dance workouts — the effect is a subtle but noticeable increase in difficulty level. The bangles apply constant but gentle resistance and are also great additions to workouts like Pilates, yoga, aerobics, and core training. Choose from 1-, 2-, or 3-lb options in colors ranging from blush pink to bright blue.

For a Family-Friendly Core Challenge
Aviron Abs Hero Core Trainer
Planks might be a great way to build your core muscles, but staring at the floor can get pretty boring. Enter the Avirona Abs Hero Core Trainer. It looks like an overly large bathroom scale (whatever you do, don’t stand on it!). The base is rounded, so you can tilt the platform in any direction, which makes your planks dynamic (aka extra challenging).
There’s a built-in holder for your phone or tablet, and for a $3 monthly membership, you can sign up for Aviron’s app (only on iOS), which features interactive plank games and challenges. “It’s a tough workout! I could really feel my core engaging in ways I don’t with regular planks,” says editor Sabrina Rojas Weiss. “I also appreciate that it’s not something I need to plug in. The whole concept is to play video games on your phone, which you control by tilting the trainer or holding it still. It’s very motivating. It’s a fun way to end a home workout.”
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For Your Friend Who Wants to Improve Their Balance
Lekfit Rebounder

For the Urban Yogini
MZ Wallace Matt Bag
The MZ Wallace Black Matt Bag is the perfect match for the friend who’s always headed to yoga class with a mat in tow. It’s lightweight and durable, with a nice pocket for storing a few essentials.
During testing, my yoga mat fit perfectly, and the drawstring kept it secure. But the bag really stands out for its style. With its quilted exterior, black hardware, and elegant Italian leather touches, I felt sleek carrying it into coffee shops after class.

For the Yoga Mama and Child
Liforme Majestic Carpet Yoga Mat and Kids’ Classic Yoga Mat
Got a mama and child yogi duo in your life? Lifeform makes eco-friendly, nontoxic, high-end yoga mats with vibrant colors and patterns. The Majestic Carpet Yoga Mat has an ornate and luxurious-looking carpet design, which is also “helpful, marking placements for various positions,” Scully says. “It’s also got an amazing grip.”
The Kids’ Classic Mat (which is sold separately) is also super grippy and has geometric lines to help kids stay centered on the mat. These mats are the perfect splurge items to spoil your loved ones during the holidays. “With a price like this, you don’t want to just impulse-buy this,” Scully says. “But it would be something that would make someone very happy as they unwrapped it.”

For Weight-Bearing On the Go
GoRuck Spy Ruck
Weighted vests are a popular fitness accessory that I’ve fully embraced; I often wear mine for added weight-bearing during hikes, walks, and even chores around the home.
After testing the GoRuck Spy Ruck, writer Nicole Bonaccorso was hooked. The adjustable vest features a contouring frame that fits the upper torso comfortably without restricting breathing, and the balanced weight placement keeps the body steady. “I like that the weights are in the front as well as in the back, and it fits the female body nicely,” says Bonaccorso. “It’s also low profile, and it’s good for everyday use,” she adds.
The GoRuck Spy Ruck features an 8-, 12-, or 16-lb option and comes in black, white, and an eye-catching gold. If you’re not convinced, GoRuck was cofounded by a female former CIA field officer, meaning this is the real deal.

For the Pilates Princess
Your Reformer Prop Starter Kit

For the Indoor Runner
Echelon Stride 6
Running indoors offers several benefits, including avoiding hazardous traffic, icy winds, and the need to squeeze in steps between calls.
Your giftee will appreciate this compact, quiet treadmill, featuring an impact-absorbing running deck, Bluetooth connectivity for tracking performance stats, adjustable incline options, and potential AI-powered insights, along with other perks available through the premier membership ($399 per year).
“It has a small footprint and looks sleek but feels high-performance,” says writer Grace Gallagher. The device offers a smooth ride, is easy to use, and is quiet enough to be used next to Gallagher’s home office.
Accessories
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For the Tennis Player
CourtLife The Gamechanger Sports Tote Bag for Tennis and Pickleball
Stylish, lightweight, and easy to wipe clean, the Gamechanger Sports Tote Bag for Tennis and Pickleball will keep your giftee prepped for any game that arises. It’s loaded with pockets — both internal and external — that can hold tennis rackets, a water bottle, a tennis can, plus valuables and essentials like a phone.
Swanson says that the bag easily doubles as an overnight bag, upping its versatility. Plus, “it is made really well — beyond well!” Swanson says. “It is so easy to clean and is very spacious. I used it for pickleball, and it holds everything. This bag is truly a dream.”

For Your Adventure-Loving Son
Teton Sports TrailRunner 2L Hydration Pack
For the adventurer who’s always out exploring, this lightweight pack keeps them hydrated, fueled, and ready for anything. Built with an ergonomic fit, it has a 2-liter water bladder, a durable rip-stop shell, bungee-cord quick storage, and an outer pocket perfect for stashing snacks.
“It’s a thoughtful gift for outdoorsy folks at a great price point in a variety of color options,” says Campbell. The pack is also less than $30 and comes with a lifetime warranty — not a bad way to spend your hard-earned cash.

For the One Hitting the Slopes
Rōka Bridger Snow Goggles
With the Rōka Bridger Snow Goggles, your sister can shred the slopes in confidence without the glare and flying powder distracting her eyes. It has an adjustable anti-sweat, no-slip strap. The triple-layer face foam protection and wide nose bridge design keep the face comfy. The wide lenses are anti-reflection, scratch-resistant, and hydrophobic, meaning they help repel water.
“They’re pretty comfortable and provide a really wide range of vision,” says Rojas Weiss, which is important as she skirts down the mountain. What’s really unique is the interchangeable magnetic lenses. “You can pop off the lenses and switch them out with another one when the light condition changes, and it’s easy to do, but not so easy that the lens will accidentally fall off if you fall.”
Colors range from a classic black strap and lens to an eye-turning white strap with a chrome rose mirror lens. Each pair comes with a zipper case and microfiber cleaning cloth to help keep the goggles in tip-top shape.

For the Retreat Seeker
Kulkea Kӓydӓ Travel Backpack
Whether your adventure-seeking friend is heading to a yoga retreat, a camping expedition, or boarding a plane for an Iron Man, the Kulkea Kӓydӓ Travel Backpack is a must-have. This 36-liter carry-on bag is all about function; it’s durable for rugged outdoor excursions and yet comfortable to wear on the move.
I love the roomy main compartment that generously fits all of my clothes and sneakers, not to mention the numerous pockets that seem to fit all of my fitness travel needs, including water bottles, goggles, and protein bars. I also love the attachable dopp kit and protected laptop sleeve. The ergonomic adjustable straps and back panel are padded, which rest comfortably on my torso, and the adjustable waist belt and chest strap keep me balanced and steady during my climbs.
No matter the destination, I’m confidently sporting my essentials with the Kulkea Kӓydӓ Travel Backpack.
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For the Skier
Kulkea Powder Trekker Boot Bag (52L)
Got a loved one who loves to hit the slopes? They’ll appreciate this cute, lightweight boot tote bag with comfy, padded ergonomic straps and strategically positioned compartments that make packing and unpacking easy.
“I like the amount of small pockets, with easy access to them,” said writer Catherine Brown. “They’re nice for sunglasses, sunscreen, etc. I also appreciate that the shoulder straps are wide, as ski boots are not exactly light to carry around!” The bag also features a sling for helmet storage and a fleece-lined hard-shell compartment for goggles and face coverings.
Recovery

For the Dad Who Needs to De-Stress
Rally Orbital Massager
The Rally Orbital Massager is a great option for the parent in your life who deserves a little extra relaxation. The massage gun’s orbital motion gently targets tight spots, improving circulation and helping muscles recover after a long day.
“It’s much more comfortable and less painful than traditional percussion-based massage guns,” says writer Caroline Lubinsky.
Quiet, lightweight, and easy to hold, it’s perfect for winding down on the couch, at the office, or on the go. Plus, it has multiple speed settings, allowing your giftee to customize their massage exactly how they like it.

For the Mom in Recovery Mode
Nike ReactX Rejuven8
After crushing her workout, mom is going to need some downtime for her body to recover. Enter Nike’s ReactX Rejuven8 slides. These squishy, soft slides are the perfect antidote after a hard run or a high-impact workout.
“They are SO comfy. I was skeptical, but they’re like walking on little cushiony clouds,” says Ziegler. They’re made from Nike’s soft, responsive ReactX foam and feature a wide footbed that allows your feet ample room to relax in. They come in 10 colors, including black, white, pink, and electric blue.

For Stretching Out Your Back
Chirp Wheel
Chirp Wheels are circular devices that can help you or a loved one work out tension in the back, shoulders, and neck. For someone who struggles to sleep because of pain or tension in these areas, a Chirp Wheel set could be an ideal gift.
These devices are smaller than a foam roller, so it’s a lot easier to store them and travel with them. They work well at getting knots and kinks out of the body. Each set comes with three Chirp Wheels: a 4-inch neck wheel, a 6-inch deep tissue wheel, and a 10-inch back wheel.

For Sore Soles
Mountrax Foot Massager
Your loved one will gratefully sink their feet into the Mountrax Foot Massager whenever they crave a deluxe and customized massage. The massager features several modalities, including deep Shiatsu, compression, kneading, and heat. It has an ergonomic foot chamber for comfort and boasts three levels of kneading and compression intensities, so your loved one can really dial into what their tootsies need.
“The kneading function gave a deep, intense massage,” says writer Kara Wahlgren, “and would make a great gift for runners.” Thanks to the handy remote, there’s no need to awkwardly bend over to adjust the settings (but you certainly can). The interior liners are removable and washable, which cuts down on shopping.

For a Cool Night’s Rest
Sleep Number Cool ComfortFit Body Pillow
Sleep and recovery are key after a workout sesh. Your giftee will certainly catch their z’s with the head-to-toe comfort of a Sleep Number Cool ComfortFit Body Pillow. Its long design conforms to the body and is perfect for snuggling and slumber while supporting the hips.
It has a cool-to-the-touch cover and is filled with hypoallergenic memory foam and premium down-alternative fibers, which people with allergies will appreciate. “It’s very supportive, comfortable to sleep with, and offers a type of cooling presence,” remarks Swanson, who now exclusively uses this pillow nightly. She was also pleased with the weight. “This isn’t a flimsy pillows like others I’ve tested,” she says. “This has weight, and it sort of kept me in place when I used it.”
The pillow cover is washing machine–friendly, and the pillow comes with a complimentary pillowcase, which is a nice touch.

For Your Sister-in-Law Who Loves Holistic Medicine
Therabody Theracup
Make your loved one feel as though their cup runneth over with the Theracup from Therabody.
Favored by Olympic athletes, cupping is a Chinese healing technique that uses heated suction cups to reduce deep-seated tension that is said to block blood flow, lymph fluid, and qi, the Chinese word for life force energy.
This digital device requires no practitioner and mimics this technique using suction, heat, and vibration therapy. It’s great for muscle recovery. If it’s good enough for elite athletes, it’s an excellent gift for the family.

For the Environmentalist
Oceanfoam Tidal Roller
Help your loved one get the kinks out of their back — and lower their environmental impact — with this eco-friendly gift.
While most foam rollers aren’t that exciting, the Tidal Roller stands out with its funky colors and patterns, elevating it beyond the ordinary.
“It is a good gift for the aesthetic fitness friend in your life (think along the lines of that one friend who is always trying out a new workout class, wears matching workout sets, etc.),” says Heyl.
Tech

For the Swimmer Who Wants to Jam Out
Zygo Z2 Waterproof Headphones
Some say gymgoers and runners have all the fun when it comes to working out to music, but that’s no longer the case for swimmers thanks to the Zygo Z2 Waterproof Headphones. These are a true game changer for aquaexercisers who can listen to music, podcasts, audiobooks, and more while they stroke.
The headphones connect seamlessly to your phone via Bluetooth. You can wear them under or over your swim cap. “It just works, and that’s not something you can always say about Bluetooth headphones, never mind underwater Bluetooth headphones,” says tester Spencer Ziegler. “The setup was quick and painless. I never experienced connectivity issues, and the clearness of the sound was impressive,” he adds.
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For the Data-Obsessed
Polar Loop Screen-Free Wearable Health Band and Fitness Tracker
If your giftee is a data nerd like me, the Polar Loop Screen-Free Wearable Health Band and Fitness Tracker will score major points. The band tracks basics like sleep, steps, and workouts, all of which help keep me motivated day-to-day.
What I love most about it, though, is the training load function, which helps me to track how hard I’m pushing my body, enabling me to ramp up or scale back as needed. It also offers a test to track your aerobic function. Meanwhile, sleep tracking measures how well I’m recovering from any recent exertion, and gives me tips on how to get back to baseline.
Plus, the cloth band is super lightweight, soft, and comfortable compared with rubber bands, which can feel weird on the skin.

For the Music Lover
TREBLAB Z2 Wireless Over Ear Headphones
If you know someone who loves to blast music while they’re working out, these headphones will be the perfect gift: They’re lightweight and rated IPX3 water-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about them getting sweaty during your HIIT workouts.
These foldable headphones last for 58 continuous hours on a single charge and come with a hard-sided carrying case, a 3.5-mm aux cable, and a USB-C charging cable. These may not have all the bells and whistles of some higher-end headphones, but they also don’t come with the accompanying high price.
Nutrition and Hydration

For the One Who’s Building Muscle
Create Creatine Monohydrate Gummies
When you need a dose of creatine on the go, we’re recommending Create Creatine Monohydrate Gummies. One daily serving size is equal to three gummies (1.5 grams each). While this may feel like a lot to some, Sarah Glinski, RD, didn’t mind. She liked the balanced taste (not too sweet) and the Sour Cherry and Blue Raspberry flavors.
“My strength and endurance continued to improve while I was taking these, and I was able to push myself in my workouts,” Glinksi sais. The slim profile pouch is easy to pack in a gym bag or stash in the car, so you don’t have to worry about the bulk and mess of packing a powder.
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For the Women Who Need More Protein
Thorne Whey Protein Isolate
Protein powder is an excellent way to sneak in extra protein in smoothies, baked goods, and even coffee. If your friend is on the hunt for a delicious powder, allow us to introduce Thorne Whey Protein Isolate. One scoop offers 25 grams (g) of whey protein and 2.2 g of muscle-building leucine. It’s free of additives, dyes, gluten, and soy and is naturally sweetened with 2 g of sugar. It’s also NSF Certified for Sport.
After testing the chocolate flavor, Samantha Baker was hooked; it’s easy to mix with a frother, tastes delicious, meets the recommended protein goal outlined by her doctor, and keeps her more satiated between breakfast and lunch. “While it is more expensive than some of the others, the taste is well worth the extra price,” says Baker, who continues to use it daily.

For the Hydration-Station Advocate
Gnarly Hydrate Electrolyte Powder
I’m personally a fan of the Orange Pineapple flavor, which reminds me of a tropical vacation but without that cloying artificial flavor. If that’s not your cup of tea, there are plenty of other flavors, such as Ruby Red Grapefruit, Salted Margarita, and Lemonade. Gnarly products are free of sweeteners and artificial additives and are NSF certified, meaning they are tested by a third party to ensure ingredient purity.

For Your Tween
Lululemon Back to Life Sport Bottle
Keep your tween hydrated with this trendy, cute, 24-ounce vacuum-insulated water bottle. Made from durable silicone-coated steel, the bottle’s double-wall design and powder coating keep the container secure in sweaty hands.
We also like the color options, such as bubblegum pink, canary yellow, and earthy burgundy. Plus, “my daughter loves it because it says ‘lululemon’ on it and the brand is very trendy right now,” says Ziegler.

For the Camper
BB Box 34 oz Insulated Flip Top Bottle
Your loved one who goes camping will drink this gift right up. This insulated, silicone-coated stainless steel bottle keeps liquids icy cold for up to 46 hours, making it perfect for friends and family who love to hit the trail.
Lightweight, durable, and with a capacity of 34 ounces, this bottle is great for everything from local hikes to weekend camping trips.
“I like that the water stays cool in this bottle all day, thanks to the three layers of insulation — and even longer,” says Scully. “I took it camping with us and honestly, the water stayed cold for a long time.”
How We Chose the Best Fitness Gifts

When it came to picking the best fitness gifts, we didn’t just rely on hype or clever marketing — we tested everything ourselves.
Our team of health and wellness journalists and editors spent weeks testing each item, incorporating them into real-life routines to assess their performance over time. Whether we were lifting weights between calls or ending our workday with a run, we wanted to know which products truly delivered on their promises and which ones fell flat.
We also paid close attention to the details: functionality, comfort, durability, ease of use, and overall value. Was it built to last? Did it make exercise more enjoyable or efficient? Would we actually recommend it to a friend? Only the items that passed all those tests earned a spot here.
Why Trust Everyday Health

Brittany Vargas
Author
Brittany Elyse Vargas has been a professional writer and journalist for over a decade and has been exploring topics around mental health, mind-body medicine, health, wellness, and ...

Reyna Franco, RDN
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Reyna Franco, RDN, is a New York City–based dietitian-nutritionist, certified specialist in sports dietetics, and certified personal trainer. She is a diplomate of the American Col...

Alexandra Klausner
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Alexandra Klausner is a freelance health writer and editor with over 10 years of journalism experience. Prior to going freelance, she worked as a reporter and editor at the New Yor...

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Julia Childs Heyl, MSW
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Julia Childs Heyl, MSW, is a California-based clinical social worker and mental health writer. Her writing often focuses on mental health disparities and uses critical race theory ...

Ashley Ziegler
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Ashley Ziegler is a full-time writer with extensive experience covering women’s health, babies' and kids' health, mental health, and wellness. Her work has appeared on websites inc...

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Jen Sinclair Is a freelance health and wellness writer who has spent the last two years writing feature articles and reviews of mental health and medical services and products. Her...

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Ally Hirschlag
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Ally Hirschlag is an award-winning journalist with over 10 years of experience editing and writing health, fitness, beauty, lifestyle, and science content. Her work has appeared in...

Tori Martinet, MS, RD
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Tori Martinet is an Intuitive Eating dietitian, food writer, recipe developer, and food photographer based in Southern California. She received a master's degree in nutrition from ...

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Esme Benjamin
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Esme Benjamin is a seasoned health and wellness journalist based in New York City. Her work has covered fitness, nutrition, and the intersection of well-being and travel. Alongside...

Riley Blanton, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
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Riley Blanton, MS, LMFT, PMH-C, is a clinician specializing in reproductive mental health care in Wichita, Kansas, and an experienced freelance health writer. Her articles have cov...

Nicole Bonaccorso
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Nicole Bonaccorso is a writer and editor with more than 12 years of journalism experience. She has been writing for Everyday Health since 2025, and has also been published on NBCNe...

Catherine Brown
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Catherine began a career based on health while working at an orthodontist's office, then became a certified yoga and meditation teacher, but soon recognized a call to follow a path...

Katrina Cossey
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Katrina Cossey is a writer and editor with over 10 years of experience in broadcast and service journalism. Over her career, she’s covered topics such as the COVID-19 pandemic, new...

Sarah Glinski, RD
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Sarah is a registered dietitian and accomplished health and nutrition writer known for her expertise in crafting engaging content. She received dual bachelor’s degrees in nutrition...

Caroline Lubinsky
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Steven Rowe is a New York City–based writer and editor with over six years of experience writing about mental health, men's health, parenting, and products.
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