Someone on your gift list has mentioned they’re interested in starting a workout routine, or they’ve just started getting into fitness. When we’re talking about fitness gift ideas, most of the fitness and wellness lists I see are full of luxury workout equipment and products that are hundreds to thousands of dollars. When someone’s just starting out, dropping hundreds of $$$ on workout gear just isn’t practical! It also fuels the idea that someone has to purchase those items to have a successful workout routine, which just isn’t true.
So instead, I decided to create the anti-bougie, down-to-earth fitness gift idea list! This is for anyone on your list who needs a little fun or kickstart with their workouts.
What you won’t see on this list: expensive equipment, tracking devices like watches or Oura Rings, fancy workout sets that cost so much you’re nervous to actually work out in them, or specialized gear that usually ends up in the back of the basement.
This list is full of tried-and-true accessories, multi-use equipment that can be easily stored, workout clothes that last, and a couple fun splurge items if you’re looking for a little extra.
One last note: I do not recommend giving a fitness-themed gift to someone who hasn’t expressly stated their interest in working out. If you give a fitness gift out of the blue, it might come off as telling them they need to work out, which has icky vibes.
Without further ado, your down-to-earth fitness gift ideas:
Workout Equipment
You definitely don’t need a professional home gym setup to start workout out at home! Here are a few low-cost, versatile pieces that keep you moving:
A Kettlebell
There are dozens of exercises you can do with just one kettlebell! These vinyl-coated ones are great for home workouts because they won’t damage your floors.
Check out this article for guidance on what weight to get.
Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are highly underrated pieces of workout equipment. I love this particular pack and use it in my programs because it has five bands (instead of the usual four) plus a doorway connector! If you want bang for your buck when it comes to home workouts, these are it.
Pull Up Bar
A pull up bar is useful for more than just pull ups! I love this one because it’s way more secure than the over-the-door ones. I’ve been using this one for almost 10 years and it’s still going strong.
Exercise Sandbag
This is one of my newest pieces of equipment, and I absolutely love it! Because of all the different handle options, I feel like there’s so many different exercises I can do with it.
Things to Wear
Xero Shoes
You will rarely see me working out without a pair of Xero Shoes on! I’ve been wearing them for many years, and I love them for fitness because of how stable I feel lifting with them on.
Feetures Socks
Haven’t we all agreed that while socks the worst gift as a kid, we love it as an adult? These socks are perfect for whatever workout you have in mind and don’t slip down.
Stick Stickly Crop Shirt
I’m obsessed with this crop top. It’s one of my go-to shirts, even outside of the gym, and it never fails to get compliments. I love that the material is thicker, so it feels durable in a way a lot of fitness tops don’t. Plus, you’re supportive a fellow body-positive coach when you purchase!
DSG Leggings
I can only speak to what I own, but my DSG leggings are some of my most-worn pieces of fitness clothing. I wear them at the gym, for hiking, and you frequently see them in my social media posts. They’ve lasted me years, and they even have pockets!
Accessories
Ink+Volt Fitness Planner
If you’re a fan of analog tracking, this is for you! I’m obsessed with everything Ink+Volt comes out with, but I think this fitness tracker is extra cool and sleek looking.
Spiral Hair Ties
These hair ties are the BEST. They snag way less than the typical ones, so it’s easy to change your hair during a workout. They’ve also held up to an entire night of dancing without budging.
Hard Boiled Egg Cooker
This one is a little more unconventional, but eating enough protein is an important part of any workout plan, especially if you can’t find a tolerable protein shake flavor! I love this hardboiled egg cooker, and it makes on-the-go meals easier. My favorite part: it plays a cute little song once your eggs are ready!
Portable Speaker
Workouts are always better with your favorite songs playing! Or podcasts, tv shows, audiobooks… Headphones can be a struggle when it comes to exercise (sweaty ears, buds that fall out), so a portable speaker like this can make working out at home or outside more fun.
Bigger but Worth It
If you’re looking to splurge a little bit (without quite tripping onto the “luxury” side of fitness and wellness products) here are some options for you:
A Walking Pad
A walking pad for my work desk is probably one of my top purchases ever. Without having to think about separate workouts, it helps me get more movement in my day when I work, read, or have Zoom meetings.
Check out this article about how I use my walking pad.
Leg & Foot Massage Boots
After a big workout, these are the best! You never realize how much of a beating your feet and legs take until you make time to take better care of them. I love that these both heat and massage with different settings. Without the price of a massage membership, these keep you feeling fresh for the price of just one massage.
A Gym Membership
The person you’re buying a gift for might be hesitant about joining a gym. While I don’t recommend choosing a gym without their input, help them explore options and offer to cover part or all of the membership fee for a while! That could give them the flexibility to find a gym they truly want to go to.
Full-Color Foundations
Incoming: Shameless self plug.
Full-Color Foundations is my beginner strength group program. Over the course of five weeks, you learn the five basic strength exercises that help you move confidently. This program is perfect for anyone who’s curious about lifting weights and wants help staying consistent with workouts.
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Sarah Siertle
Hey! I'm Sarah!
I'm an inclusive strength & movement coach who helps people get hella strong so they can have fun and live their lives in full color!
My coaching is beginner-friendly, movement-based, and size-inclusive. I believe in coaching that is kind, not shaming or judgmental as so many fitness experiences are.
If you're ready to start your strength journey, you can check out your training options or get five days of five-minute workouts for free!
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