Wondering what to get that hard-to-buy-for person on your Christmas list, or for any occasion? Well, we’ve got you covered. Below are 18 fitness gifts that don't suck (except maybe one). And this one would only suck if that were the *only* fitness gift you got for someone. Read on to get some great gift ideas for the active person in your life. Finding the right gift for a fitness enthusiast can be a challenge, but this guide aims to provide inspiration for every budget and fitness level.
Budget-Friendly Essentials: Under $50
Several effective fitness tools don't require a hefty investment. These gifts are perfect for stocking stuffers or as thoughtful additions to a larger present. These are great for beginners or those looking to expand their home gym without breaking the bank.
Rubber Tubing & Bands ($5-30): You have to love the versatility in terms of the number of exercises you can do, the portability of where you can train with them, and the relatively low cost. Add to that they are appropriate for all levels from beginner up through top-level powerlifters, and you’ve a great addition to any gym bag. Resistance bands offer a wide range of resistance levels, making them suitable for various exercises and fitness goals.
Lacrosse Ball ($5): After a while, a tennis ball breaks down and just doesn’t get the job done. And a foam roll just can’t hit certain areas, nor does it fit very well in a carry-on bag when traveling. A lacrosse ball is a more durable and targeted tool for self-myofascial release, helping to alleviate muscle tension and improve mobility. It's a small but powerful tool for recovery.
Shaker Cup ($10): If you’re serious about your fitness goals, then you are serious about your nutrition. And this involves making sure you always have a pre/post-workout shake at the ready. Shaker cups ensure you have something to dump your blender drink into before hitting the gym. Staying hydrated and fueled is essential for optimal performance and recovery.
Training Journal ($5): This doesn’t have to be anything special. But everyone needs one, and they’re easy to find. Just make sure this isn’t the only fitness gift you get someone. Because that would really suck. Don’t be that guy/girl. Tracking progress is essential for motivation and for making necessary adjustments to a training plan. A simple notebook or a dedicated fitness app can serve this purpose.
Chin Up Bar ($20 and up): Want bigger arms and a nice v-taper down to a small waist? Add in more chins and pull-ups. There are a number of versions. Personally, I would go with a removable one rather than bolting one into my wall. This is a great way to add bodyweight training to a home workout routine. It is a very effective exercise for back and bicep development.
Gym Boss ($20): Maybe you already wear a watch to the gym, but does it have a countdown timer? And if so, do you take your watch off when using kettlebells so the face doesn’t get wrecked? A Gym Boss has a couple of interval timers you can set, is small, and fits easily in your gym bag. Great when doing MET training and intervals. This is a simple and effective way to track rest periods and interval training, ensuring consistent workouts.
Mid-Range Marvels: $30-$150
These gifts offer a balance of functionality and affordability, providing valuable tools for enhancing workouts and recovery. These are good options for serious fitness enthusiasts.
Fat Gripz ($39): Grip strength is the weak link for many people. And a wider bar or handle requires more of the muscles necessary for holding on. Increase your grip strength and watch your other lifts follow suit. These simple attachments can make a big difference in strength gains.
Foam Roller ($40): If you’re going to spring for a foam roller, do yourself a favor and get a foam roller plus. The inner core of the roller is a PVC tube, and it has an outer sleeve that can be removed and washed. The other cheaper versions break down too early and don’t last. Foam rolling is an effective way to improve flexibility, reduce muscle soreness, and enhance recovery.
Power Wheel ($60): Core exercises for the upper and lower body. Small enough to travel with and store away when not in use. Provides a number of trunk anti-flexion exercises. This is a versatile tool for strengthening the core and improving stability.
Suspension Trainer ($50-150): There are a number of versions you can go with, including the Jungle Gym and gym-popular TRX. Great for all levels. Perfect for people on the go. As many exercise options as your creativity will allow. Suspension trainers offer a portable and versatile way to perform a full-body workout using bodyweight resistance.
Kettlebell (varies): A great training tool. Can be used for rehab, strength, or energy system training. The best, and most expensive, come from Dragon Door. A number of exercises can be performed with a single bell. Kettlebells are versatile tools for building strength, power, and endurance.
Weighted Vest ($50 and up): Need a way to increase the intensity of your workouts? Or have an arm injury that prevents you from holding a dumbbell or barbell? Throw on a vest and make all the exercises where you have to move your body a little harder. The people at Hyper Wear have come up with a really cool version. Weighted vests add an extra challenge to bodyweight exercises and can be used for various activities, including walking, running, and strength training.
High-End Investments: $150+
These gifts are for the dedicated fitness enthusiast who is willing to invest in high-quality equipment and technology. These are great for those who are serious about tracking their progress and optimizing their training.
Bodybugg ($250 – Discontinued, similar devices available): I’m a numbers guy, and the Bodybugg (now discontinued, but similar devices exist) puts true numbers to all my workouts. This device tells you exactly how many calories you burn throughout the day so you know how much to eat in order to lose, maintain, or gain weight. Be aware that there is a subscription service (additional charge) required after the first six months of use. Modern fitness trackers and smartwatches offer similar functionality, providing detailed data on calorie expenditure, heart rate, and activity levels.
Sleeptracker ($200 – Similar sleep trackers available): Who doesn’t love sleep? And who doesn’t love waking up at the appropriate time every day feeling totally refreshed. I swear by mine. Several sleep trackers are available on the market that provide detailed data on sleep quality, duration, and sleep stages. Prioritizing sleep is crucial for recovery and overall health.
Partner Glute Ham Raise ($229 est): Who doesn’t want firmer glutes for the holidays? Want to perform glute-ham exercises but don’t have access to a glute-ham machine? This is a cool option. This piece of equipment allows for effective glute and hamstring development at home.
Magic Bullet ($40): If you pick up a shaker cup, then this makes a great complement. But if you don’t, you’re still ok because this smoothie-sized blender comes with a number of cups to take your smoothie to go. A quality blender is essential for preparing nutritious smoothies and protein shakes.
Five Fingers ($80 – Minimalist shoes): I love my Five Fingers. Might not be the best for wearing outdoors during the winter, but they are definitely great for the gym or a tropical vacation. By allowing the toes to articulate free of the confines of a toe box as well as bringing the heel down to a neutral level, does wonders for natural movement and joint health. Minimalist shoes can improve foot strength and natural movement patterns, but it's important to transition to them gradually to avoid injury.
Well, there you have it, 18 fitness gifts that don't suck (except maybe one). Hope this makes your shopping a little easier and brings a little joy, and sweat, to someone in your life. Finding the perfect fitness gift shows that you care about the recipient's health and well-being. Whether you're on a tight budget or looking to splurge, there's something for everyone on this list.
