Yoga mats and water bottles aren't the only kinds of presents you can give to person who love to work out [1]. With the entire wellness industry continuing to boom after the pandemic, the options are endless when it comes to great gifts, regardless of whether the gift receiver in question likes to run, cycle, is obsessed with HIIT workouts, loves bootcamps, or swears by Pilates reformer classes.
In 2021, we've got our eyes on some stylish sustainable leggings, wireless headphones, HigherDose's sauna blanket, and the Peloton bike [2], which has been at the top of our wish lists for a few years now. We've also included a few gift card options for those people in your life that are really hard to shop for, and yes ... there's a few really great water bottles and one seriously grippy yoga mat that made the list, too.
If there's someone in your life who lives and breathes fitness (yourself, included) take a look at some of these top fitness gifts for 2021.
— Additional reporting by Ange Law
ClassPass Gift Card
Any fitness lover in your life would be thrilled to receive a ClassPass Gift Card [3] (£5 and up), which gives them the opportunity to try classes at top-rated studios and gyms — from Pilates and yoga, to cycling and HIIT — for less than typical drop-in rates. The company suggests purchasing gift cards in £50 or £100 increments, but how much you want to give your friend or family member is up to you.
Free People The Way Home Shorts
You've probably spotted the Free People The Way Home Shorts [4] (£24 - £28) all over the internet (the thick waistband gives them a silhouette that's hard to forget), so they're sure to be at the top of any fitness lovers list this year. What's to love? Besides the fact they come in a million different colours, they're also supportive, comfortable, and aren't see through. Read our full editor review here [5].
Bose Sport Earbuds
If you have an active lifestyle, then the Bose Sport Earbuds [6] (£180) were made just for you. Weather-proof and sweat-resistant, they have a number of handy features for listeners on the move. Available in glacier white, baltic blue, and triple black, their sleek design allows you to swipe up or down to change the volume, and tap to pause and play songs or take calls.
Pocket Sport Morisot Legging
Pocket Sport Morisot Legging [7] (£68) check off all of the boxes when it comes to workout leggings. Comfortable? Check. Flattering? Check (thanks to strategically placed seams and a high waist). Stylish? Check. The simple black-and-white design means they pretty much will go with anything in your wardrobe and any pair of trainers you own.
Louisa Drake Method Stability Ball
Celebrity trainer Louisa Drake [8] and founder of Louisa Drake Method [9] (LDM) loves using the LDM mini stability ball [10] (£15) in the studio and at home. "I love the mini stability ball as it is so versatile. It can be used to aid a number of exercises, for the core and lower body in particular. It doesn't take up too much storage space at home, and it's nice and portable — you can easily pop one into your workout bag."
La Pochette Sweat Bag
La Pochette Sweat Bag [11] (£35) makes a thoughtful gift for anyone who loves going to fitness classes before or after work. Made from recycled plastic bottles, the antibacterial and water-resistant kit bag is a chic and hygienic way of storing damp workout clothes on the go — a great alternative to using the single use plastic bags offered at many boutique fitness studios. They're machine washable and come in a variety of hues.
Larq Self Cleaning Water Bottle
A key component of wellness for us is proper hydration, and that's why we want to treat ourselves to this Larq Self Cleaning Water Bottle [12] (£95). We do enough dishes every single day, and the fact that we don't have to worry about cleaning this bottle is a gift in and of itself.
Nimble Focused Bike Short
These printed Nimble Focused Bike Shorts [13] (£55) are both adorable and very flattering, thanks to the high-rise waist and an inseam that's not too short. Wear them whilst working out from home in the wintertime, then once summer comes, they're cute enough to show off outside.
The Lab Co. Sports Laundry Care Kit
The Lab Co. Sports Laundry Care Kit [14] (£19) contains a detergent and freshening mist (which you can use in your trainers, mid-workout, or if you can't wash your clothes right away) that feature an subtle grapefruit scent and none of the harsh chemicals typically found in traditional laundry detergents. The formula is strong enough to remove sweat, mud, and chlorine, but gentle enough to ensure your gym clothes retain their shape, stretch, and colour.
Peloton Home Exercise Bike
For the person who has everything, or the person who wants to work out at home, or the person who loves spin but hates other people, there's no better gift than this Peloton Home Exercise Bike [15] (£1,350). Take spin classes from the comfort and privacy of your own home.
Shreddy Long Resistance Bands
Every fit fan needs a set of resistance bands at home. The pretty colours of the Shreddy Long Resistance Bands [16] (£17) will make workouts even more fun (that's how it works, right?) and they're available in four weights (light, medium, heavy, and extra heavy). If you prefer a shorter resistance band, they have those too [17].
Chilly's Water Bottle
Ever since we found this pretty Chilly's Water Bottle [18] (£26), we've been wanting one for ourselves. Almost anyone in your life will love toting around this bottle.
Bala 1lb Weight
These Bala 1lb Weights [19] (£44) were the hottest commodity this year. They're finally back in stock, and they're the perfect present.
Powerbeats Pro True Wireless Bluetooth In-Ear Sport Headphones
Wireless headphones are a gym necessity these days, and the Powerbeats Pro True Wireless Bluetooth In-Ear Sport Headphones [20] (£220) are some of the best for working out thanks to the ear hooks and 9-hour playtime.
Peloton Sweat Towel Set
Complete your Peloton-obsessed friend's at-home setup with the Peloton Sweat Towel Set [21] (£42), which includes three highly-absorbent cotton towels. They'll come in especially handy during those Tabata rides and bootcamp classes that leave you dripping in sweat.
Booty Boost Active 7/8 Stretch-Jersey Leggings
The Booty Boost Active 7/8 Stretch-Jersey Leggings [22] (£88) is one of our favourite pair of leggings we've ever worn. Seriously. The high waist and curved seam along the hips make them incredibly flattering, the fabric is super soft, and they offer just enough compression to make you feel supported, but not so much that the waist is digging into your sides. Everyone who wears leggings regularly — whether for working out, lounging around, or working from home — should get themselves a pair, stat.
MZ Wallace Medium Metro Backpack
Fit everything you need in this chic MZ Wallace Medium Metro Backpack [23] (£185), that's both water- and stain- resistant.
Under Armour UA Sports Mask
Made from three layers of antimicrobial material, the Under Armour UA Sports Mask [24] (£18, originally £26) is breathable, comfortable, and sweat-wicking, which makes it the ideal face mask to wear whilst working out.
Spanx Active AirLuxe Got You Covered Stretch-Jersey Sweatshirt
The Spanx Active AirLuxe Got You Covered Stretch-Jersey Sweatshirt [25] is the perfect basic black pullover to throw on before or after the gym to keep you warm (or cover up a sweat-stained sports bra) or to wear whilst running outside. And because of its stylish silhouette, it can be worn even if you're not working out, whether you're just popping to the shop or meeting friends at the pub.
Casall Step Up Platform
Gift your friend or family member the Casall Step Up Platform [26] (£149) and you'll open up a whole slew of new workout opportunities for them, from HIIT exercises to step-up aerobics and all the jumping, stabilising, and stepping-up in between.
Lululemon Cold Terrain Run Gloves
Whether you're an avid runner, or know an avid runner, a good pair of running gloves for the colder weather is key. And if you're someone who wants to get more into running, owning a pair of running gloves helps you eliminate the excuse not to go out because of the cold weather. The Lululemon Cold Terrain Run Gloves [27] (£25) are sleek and simple — offering some reflective detailing and tech-friendly fingers pads.
Higher Dose Infrared Sauna Blanket
Now that we're working out at home and relaxing at home, this Higher Dose Infrared Sauna Blanket [28] (£499) is a brilliant big-ticket present. If they love the effects of sauna, and don't we all, this blanket will get so much use.
Yogi Bare Paws Natural Rubber Yoga Mat
The Yogi Bare Paws Natural Rubber Yoga Mat [29] (£75) isn't just aesthetically pleasing. Made from natural rubber, it also offers a serious amount of grip, making a great option for any of your at-home workouts — from yoga to cardio. And your purchase will also help out a good cause. The green 'Wild' Paws mat plants a tree for every mat bought, whilst the 'Lunar' blue mat (shown here) supports ocean conservation charity, Sea Shepherd.
Peloton Show Up Sparkle Leggings
These festive Peloton Show Up Sparkle Leggings [30] (£90) are sure to make any workout merry and bright — not to mention stylish.
Frame Gliding Discs
"An ultimate favourite of mine when exercising at home, gliders work your entire body and raise the heart rate like nothing else. Use them to level up your lunges and mountain climbers for a full-out cardio burn," Emily Aitcheson [31], head of barre and dance at Frame in London [32] told POPSUGAR. This pair of Frame Gliding Discs [33] (£15) is great quality at a more reasonable price that many we see on the market.
Oxo Spiralizer Grater Zester & Slicer
Gluten-free, Paleo, and low-carb healthy eaters will flip for this Oxo Spiralizer Grater Zester & Slicer [34] (£26) that will help them create veggie noodles at home in just a few minutes.
Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Legging
The Girlfriend Collective Compressive High-Rise Legging [35] (£62) and Paloma Bra [36] (£35) are eco-friendly, size inclusive, and come in the comfiest fabric.
Varley Appleton Half-Zip Pullover
They'll love curling up in this cosy Varley Appleton Half-Zip Pullover [37] (£142).
Adidas Ultraboost 21
If you or your loved one is an outdoor runner who's concerned about joint health due to the impact of running on uneven surfaces, the Adidas Ultraboost 21 [38] (£160) trainers are a great option. The new-and-improved shoe features maximum support and enhanced movement; plus, it's made with recycled material made up of at least 50% Parley Ocean Plastic (a material created from upcycled plastic waste that was intercepted from beaches and coastal communities before reaching the ocean, according to Adidas).
Lululemon Align Pant
The Lululemon Align Pant [39] (£88) is the buttery-soft yoga pant of your dreams. When you think of cosy, comfortable leggings, you'll think of these.
Theragun Elite Percussive Therapy Device
When I'm stressed, I get knots in my back, as so many of us do. Instead of living in pain, I use the Theragun Elite Percussive Therapy Device [40] (£375). It's intense, but it really does work like you've just gotten a deep tissue massage.
TRX Home Gym Suspension System
The ultimate in minimalist gym gear, the TRX Home Gym Suspension System [41] (£125) sets up in less than 60 seconds and can be anchored almost anywhere — even a doorway or a tree. The purchase includes a one-year subscription to an app with over 80 workouts using the system . . . so you'll never get bored and never have an excuse.
Fitbit Versa 3 Smart Fitness Watch
The high-tech fitness enthusiast will love being able to track their movement with this epic Fitbit Versa 3 Smart Fitness Watch [42] (£199).
Tala Skinluxe Leggings
Grace Beverley only recently launched the Tala Skinluxe Leggings [43] (£54) and they're already receiving rave reviews. Cheaper than your average sustainable activewear, these leggings have it all: they're super comfortable, incredibly flattering, and have the perfect amount of compression — so enough, but not so much that you can't fit your phone in the handy pockets.
Spruce Thermal KeepCup
For the person who loves a morning workout, and hates their morning coffee going cold on their commute, the Thermal KeepCup [44] (£24) is the perfect gift.
Polar Heart Rate Monitor
Monitor your heart rate and keep track of your fitness with this Polar Heart Rate Monitor [45] (£79 - £106, depending on model). You'll be amazed at how easy it is to improve your fitness with this amazing product.
Lifeproof Armband with Quickmount
Whether she's going for a run or lifting weights at the gym, she needs an armband that can handle her sweat and movement. This Lifeproof Armband [46] (£43) checks off all the boxes, so she never has to worry about where her phone has gone during her workout.
Salt Spa Co. Deep Sleep Epsom Salt
From cryotherapy to professional massage to acupuncture, there's no shortage of high-tech, expensive ways to recover from a workout. Give the gift of a simple and inexpensive alternative with a five kilogram bag of Salt Spa Co. Deep Sleep Epsom Salt [47] (£20), a blend of magnesium-rich Epsom salt and essential oils to help her de-stress and sleep well.
Evamoso The Kimmy Top
A great workout top is underrated, we want them to be breathable, versatile, moisture-wicking, and comfortable. Enter The Kimmy Top [48] (£40), from sustainable brand Evamoso. The vest is made with stretchy and buttery soft bamboo viscose that falls freely for those that want a loose fit, or for a more fitted look it can be tied up, too. Evamoso's commitment to protecting the planet is equally as impressive – from the Kraft all-paper mailers it uses and vegetable-based ink stickers, to the cotton hang tags and recycled fabrics.
Everlast Unisex Gel Handwrap Gloves
If they're getting into boxing or even weightlifting, these Everlast Unisex Gel Handwrap Gloves [49] (£11) make an awesome stocking stuffer.
BlendJet Two Portable Blender
Blenders are key for making smoothies and healthy shakes, but they can be large and bulky — not great if you live in a flat or share a kitchen with housemates. The BlendJet Two Portable Blender [50] (£37) is slim, portable, and USB-chargeable, which means that whilst it's powerful enough to break up and blend fruits and veggies, it doesn't take up a whole lot of space.
