Gift Ideas for Fitness Lovers

If you have a fitness enthusiast in your life, or if you know someone who plans on starting a new routine after the New Year, get them a gift they can use that supports their fitness goals. There are many useful items available in a range of price-points that any fitness lover would be thrilled to receive. 

We’ve left expensive gadgets like sports watches and items that require knowing a person’s clothing or shoe size off this list — although those are wonderful gift ideas too, of course! 

Here are gift ideas for the fitness lovers in your life. 

Resistance Bands

A pack of resistance bands comes with a few bands in a variety of tensions. They can be used for both arm and leg exercises, and incorporated into stretches, too. They don’t take up much space, and can easily be thrown in a bag for those who like to work out while traveling. Most sets are under $20, making them an inexpensive gift that offers a lot of value.

Hands-free Dog Leashes

Have a friend who loves to get their steps in while taking their dog for a walk or run? A hands-free leash might make a great gift! The leash attaches around their waist, leaving their hands free to hold a water bottle, hand weights, or music device. The leashes can be used in the traditional way as well.  Check out this list of dog-friendly hikes in San Diego and offer to join your friend and their pooch on one of their adventures!

Hiking Backpack

If you know someone who has recently developed a love of hitting the trails for a nice long hike, they might appreciate the usefulness of a hiking backpack. A hiking backpack is usually smaller and lighter than a traditional backpack, with specially-designed air vents or fabric to reduce back sweat. They are also designed with more pouches in easily-accessible locations for quickly grabbing a snack while walking. There’s usually also a dedicated spot for a water bladder to make sure they stay well-hydrated on their hikes. 

Reusable Water Bottle

Speaking of staying hydrated, a really nice reusable water bottle always makes a great gift, whether the recipient works out or not. Insulated water bottles keep water cold during workouts, but can keep drinks like tea or coffee warm, too, serving multiple purposes. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, with lid options like screw on or sippy-cup style.

Yoga Mat

Yoga mats are for more than just yoga — they are nice to have whenever you need a little extra cushion beneath you. Mats are helpful when doing floor exercises, stretching, meditation, or just for creating a barrier between you and your rug while sweating — after all, it’s easier to wipe down your mat than it is to clean the carpet! It can be nice to keep one mat at home for exercising and another in the car for attending in-person classes. Choose one in your friend’s favorite color or a pretty pattern that you know they’ll enjoy looking at while they workout. 

Massage Gift Card

Recovery is an important part of any fitness routine. Treating your friend to a massage will ensure their muscles get some love and care from a professional. Plus, by buying a gift card from a local masseuse, you can support a small business while crossing an item off your shopping list.