Turns out, motivating your friend to ditch the couch and embrace a healthier lifestyle is easier (and way more fun!) than you thought. Forget boring gym memberships and generic protein powder – these gifts will have your fitness newbie friend actually excited to break a sweat.
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Gifts for Fitness Beginners At a Glance:
- Angles90 Grips Resistance Bands: These innovative handles attach to practically anything, letting your bestie skip the intimidating equipment and sculpt those gorgeous muscles. The secret to freedom of movement is that it helps avoid rookie wrist and elbow aches while activating muscles in ways regular bars can only dream of. Trust me, it’s the perfect gift to empower your friend to conquer their fitness goals, one dynamic workout at a time. Plus, they fit in a purse. Hello, portable workout!
- Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat: If your workout buddy-to-be is dipping their toes into the fitness pool, snag the Gaiam Essentials Fitness Mat! It’s like a spa day for your joints with 10mm plush support and a non-slip grip to keep those burpees on point (no floor burn fails here!). Seriously, this mat is the foundation for your friend’s fitness journey, giving them the confidence to flow freely from downward dog to totally toned.
- Hylete Solana Cropped Tank: For your friend who’s just starting their fitness journey, it’s the perfect blend of style and support. This tank’s flattering fit and breathable fabric will make your workout newbie feel confident and comfy from their first squat to their final stretch.
Welvome back!
How inspiring is your BFF swapping out their Ben & Jerry’s for burpees? It’s like they woke up one morning and decided to channel their inner J.Lo! But now you’re probably freaking out a little about finding a gift that’s as awesome as their newfound dedication, right? I feel you. A plain old gym bag just screams “I gave up at the last minute.” But we’re going for “OMG, you KNOW me so well!”
Get ready for some seriously cool finds. Think fitness trackers that practically predict their next craving, workout gear so chic it doubles as brunch attire and motivational goodies that’ll keep them going even when their muscles are begging for mercy.
When you look good, you feel good; when you feel good, you’re more likely to stick with those healthy habits (and maybe even inspire a few envious stares).
Let’s get this sweat sesh started!
Resistance Bands.
Starter Sets to Jumpstart Their Workouts.
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Let’s spill the tea on the fitness find about to rock your bestie’s world: resistance bands! These aren’t your grandma’s dusty workout relics – they’re like the magic wand of fitness, transforming your friend’s living room into a total-body toning palace.
We’re talking biceps, booties, and everything in between, all sculpted with these stretchy little miracles. Plus, they’re so compact they can sneak into a clutch (no more excuses for skipping workouts!).
And the best part? Resistance bands are way easier on the wallet than that pricey gym membership – leaving more cash for those post-workout mimosas. Just snag a set with different resistance levels (because who doesn’t love a little challenge?), and watch their glutes transform into a certified masterpiece.
Top Picks for Beginners:
- Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands: Help your fitness newbie crush their workout goals with this set of high-end resistance bands! These babies have five strengths, so your pal can ease into things and still feel the burn (hello, toned muscles!). Plus, with a handy guide and online videos, they’ll have a personal trainer in their pocket.
- VEICK Resistance Bands with Handles: For your friend just starting to explore the world of fitness, a set of resistance bands is like a personal trainer in their pocket (minus the cheesy pickup lines). They can target different muscle groups with varying resistance levels, making it easy to level up as they get stronger. Plus, these bands are perfect for at-home workouts, fitting right into a busy beginner’s schedule.
- Fabric Resistance Bands: If your workout buddy is starting out, help them get their peach emoji poppin’ with this Renoj resistance band set! With three resistance levels, it’s like having a choose-your-own-adventure for your booty gains. Plus, they can literally take this set from barre to brunch – talk about a flex!
Yoga Mat.
Essentials for Yoga & Meditation Beginners.
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What are some of the funniest yoga fails you’ve heard about? We’ve all been there: you’re this close to channeling your inner goddess in downward dog, and suddenly, you’re sliding across the floor like a rogue ice skater. Not cute!
That’s why a high-quality yoga mat is a non-negotiable for your yogi-in-training bestie. It’s like the difference between a first-class flight and a bumpy ride in a clown car – one leaves you feeling zen, and the other…not so much.
Think of it as a magic carpet to enlightenment, only instead of transporting them to a far-off land, it’s transporting them to a world of chilled-out vibes and impressive flexibility. Plus, a good yoga mat will cushion their precious joints, preventing those “I think I pulled a hamstring trying to reach my toes” moments.
And let’s be honest, nobody wants to worry about slipping into a split when trying to find their inner peace, right? Trust me, your friend (and their downward dog) will thank you for this one. Namaste!
Must-Have Mats for Their Practice:
- JadeYoga Harmony Mat: Help your yoga-curious friend channel their inner zen master with the Jade Harmony Yoga Mat. This mat is eco-friendly, perfect for hot yoga, and so grippy that you could practically do a handstand in a hurricane (though, like, maybe don’t actually try that). Plus, every mat plants a tree, so your friend can feel good inside and out. Namaste for that!
- Gaiam Performance Dry-Grip Yoga Mat: If your pal’s idea of a good workout involves getting sweaty in hot yoga, this Performance Dry-Grip Yoga Mat is the ultimate wingman. This mat laughs in the face of sweaty palms (seriously, it wicks away moisture!) and gives your friend the confidence to hold those warrior poses like a total boss, even when things heat up. Plus, it’s latex-free, so they can focus on their flow, not any funky allergies.
- JadeYoga Voyager: Help your jet-setting fitness newbie strike a pose anywhere with the Jade Voyager Yoga Mat! This mat folds up smaller than your average carry-on cocktail kit, so they can get their flow from hotel rooms to beaches. Plus, it’s sustainably made, meaning your friend can save the planet, one downward dog at a time.
Workout Clothes.
Stylish Workout Clothes for Every Body & Budget.
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Workout clothes have come a long way from those shapeless sweats and pilled tees (bless their cotton socks, but no thanks). Nowadays, athleisure is basically its own fashion category, and your fitness newbie pal deserves to rock those endorphins and a killer outfit.
We’re talking about leggings that feel like second skin (the good kind), breathable tops that make them look and feel relaxed (even during hot yoga), and maybe even a cute headband to keep those flyaways in check.
Because here’s the thing: when you look good, you feel good. And when you feel good, you’re likely to crush those fitness goals (and maybe even inspire a few double-taps on that post-workout selfie).
Get your bestie outfitted in some seriously stylish activewear. Their future self (and their Instagram followers) will thank you.
Cute & Comfy Activewear They’ll Want to Show Off:
- Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Tights: Help your workout newbie ditch those saggy sweatpants and upgrade to the Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Tight! These leggings are magic for your legs–super flattering and sweat-wicking, and they stay put during a squat session (hallelujah!). Trust me, once your pal tries these on, they’ll say “bye, Felicia” to those old gym clothes.
- Hylete Solana Cropped Tank: Listen, every fitness newbie needs that go-to top that makes them feel like a million bucks, even if they’re just sweating it out on the treadmill. The HYLETE Solana Cropped Tank has a compressive fit and flattering design that will make your workout buddy feel like they can conquer any workout, from burpees to barre. Plus, it’s so comfy, they might even forget they’re wearing anything at all… almost.
- Gymreapers Wrist Wraps: Okay, but wrist wraps for your bestie who’s new to lifting? Such a power move. These Gymreapers bad boys will give their wrists the support they need to conquer those heavy weights (hello, #gains!) without feeling like their circulation is getting cut off. Plus, they’re approved by actual weightlifting pros, so your friend will feel like a total rockstar rocking them at the gym.
Jump Rope.
Get Their Heart Racing.
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Looking for a workout that’s effective but doesn’t involve remembering tricky dance moves like in a Zumba class? ~Bless those who can, but I’ll stick to two left feet~ Remember those carefree days of jumping rope on the playground? It turns out that those childhood shenanigans were actually a killer workout in disguise!
Yep, your fitness newbie is about to rediscover the joy of jumping rope—and this ain’t no elementary school gym class. We’re talking about calorie-torching and muscle-sculpting fun that’ll have them breaking a sweat and channeling their inner Rocky (minus the raw eggs, hopefully).
Plus, it’s a boredom-busting way to sneak in some cardio, whether they’re stuck at home only watching their fave reality show or squeezing in a quick workout between meetings (because we’re all about that multi-tasking life). Dance party or at least jumping for joy in their living room!
Ropes to Get Their Heart Pumping:
- WOD Nation High-Speed Jump Rope: If your friend is still stuck on single unders while everyone else is doing double dutch, it’s time for an intervention—a jump rope intervention! This speed rope is like the fairy godmother of cardio, magically transforming those clumsy skips into smooth, double-under magic. Plus, it’ll help them crush those WOD times, leaving them feeling less like a fitness newbie and more like a total rockstar.
- Crossrope Get Lean Jump Rope Set: Help your fitness newbie jumpstart their workout routine (see what I did there?) with this Crossrope weighted jump rope set. It’s like having a cardio party in your living room, but with less awkward small talk. Plus, the weighted ropes add an extra burn, so your friend will feel the love (and the burn!) in all the right places.
- Rogue SR-1S Short Handle Bearing Speed Rope: Mastering the jump rope is a rite of passage for any fitness newbie. Help your pal skip their way to success (pun intended!) with the Rogue SR-1S Speed Rope. It’s specifically designed for smaller hands, so they can focus on nailing those double-unders, not battling an unruly rope. Plus, it comes in many cute colors because who says working out can’t be chic?
Water Bottle.
Trendy & Functional Bottles to Keep Them Hydrated All Day.
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Nothing kills a workout vibe faster than a swig of lukewarm water from a sad, dented plastic bottle that’s probably harboring more bacteria than a petri dish. Eek! Your fitness-loving newbie deserves better—they deserve a hydration hero as fabulous as they are!
Sleek, stylish water bottles that’ll look so good in their gym selfies (because aesthetic is everything). Think stainless steel stunners that keep drinks colder than your ex’s heart for a full 24 hours (so their post-workout hydration is always on point) or those trendy glass bottles that make even plain old H20 taste like a gourmet experience.
And don’t even get me started on the cute color options and motivational quotes—it’s basically like carrying around a mini pep talk for those “I’d rather be on the couch” moments.
Stylish Sippers to Keep Them Refreshed:
- Hydro Flask Water Bottle: Help your fitness newbie blend into their new routine (get it?!) with this super-chic insulated shaker bottle. It’s perfect for whipping up protein shakes that’ll stay frosty even during the sweatiest workout sessions. Plus, thanks to the built-in whisk ball, no more clumpy protein mishaps – talk about a smooth move!
- Ice Shaker 36oz Bottle: If your workout buddy is serious about their post-workout smoothies (and let’s be real, who isn’t?), this Ice Shaker is about to become their new gym bag essential. This bad boy keeps drinks colder than your ex’s heart for over 40 hours—plus, it’s endorsed by the Gronkowski brothers, so you know it’s built for serious hydration. No more lukewarm protein shakes, darling, only ice-cold refreshments!
- S’well Stainless Steel Water Bottle: These babies keep drinks colder than a polar bear’s pedicure for hours, so their H20 will always be refreshingly frosty, even during the sweatiest workouts. Plus, with so many cute designs, your pal can find the perfect match for their workout (and post-workout brunch!) look.
Fitness Tracker.
Fitness Trackers to Monitor Their Success.
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Starting a fitness journey can feel like climbing Mount Everest in stilettos—a little bit daunting, right? That’s why every workout newbie needs a secret weapon, a little something to keep those motivation levels high and those “I’ll-start-tomorrow” excuses at bay.
Enter the fitness tracker, the ultimate accessory for anyone ready to ditch their couch potato status and become the cardio king (or queen, or non-binary royalty…you get the picture!).
This isn’t your grandma’s pedometer, but wrist companions that track every step, celebrate every mile, and basically shower your friend in virtual confetti for just showing up (because, hey, effort deserves applause!).
With features like sleep monitoring and heart rate tracking, they’ll be so busy geeking out over their fitness stats that they’ll forget all about their pre-workout dread.
A fitness tracker is the ultimate way to inject some fun, accountability, and maybe even a little competitive spirit into your friend’s wellness journey. They’ll be hitting those step goals and setting PRs faster than you can say “endorphin rush!”
Tech to Track Progress & Stay Motivated:
- Garmin Epix Gen 2: Want to spoil your friend just starting their fitness journey? Get them a Garmin Epix Gen 2 smartwatch! It’s like having a personal trainer, life coach, and GPS rolled into one stylish timepiece (talk about an overachiever!). This smartwatch tracks everything from heart rate to sleep, so your pal can finally prove those marathon-training dreams are happening (even if it’s just in their sleep for now).
- Fitbit Inspire 3: Ditch the “I don’t know what to get them!” stress and treat your fitness newbie to a Fitbit Inspire 3. This tracker is a sassy little wrist friend who’ll cheer them on with personalized fitness guidance and stress-busting tips. Plus, it’s so chic they’ll actually want to wear it 24/7–even if their idea of a marathon is just watching reality TV (no judgment here!).
- Apple Watch Series 9: Want to give your friend who’s basically allergic to the gym a fighting chance? Snag them an Apple Watch Series 9—it’s like a tiny personal trainer (and life coach, and DJ… you get it) that’ll excite them to get moving. Plus, it tracks their sleep, heart rate, and even stress levels because working out is about way more than just squats and salads (though those are important too!).
Fitness Journals And Workout Planners.
Help Them Plan, Track & Achieve Their Aspirations.
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Even the most dedicated fitness enthusiast has those mornings when the snooze button looks way more appealing than a 6 a.m. date with the treadmill. We’ve all been there, tangled in our sheets and dreaming of carbs, not cardio. But before your buddy hits the snooze button one too many times, here’s a helpful tip: introduce them to their new best friend, the fitness journal!
Think of it as a cross between a personal cheerleader and a motivational therapist, all tucked inside a seriously chic notebook (because who says self-improvement can’t be stylish?).
Every time your friend flips open those pages, they’ll be greeted with a dose of inspiration, a gentle nudge to stay on track, and maybe even a few sassy quotes to keep those excuses in check.
It’s the perfect place to track goals (hello, six-pack abs!), celebrate those hard-earned victories (even if it’s just conquering a full set of burpees), and document their incredible fitness journey.
With a fitness journal on their side, they’ll swap those “I can’t even” sighs for “look at me now!” high-fives before they know it.
Journals & Planners to Keep Them on Track:
- Fitlosophy Fitbook: If your workout newbie friend still thinks a food diary is something Carrie Bradshaw kept in her Manolos, it’s time to upgrade them to the Fitlosophy FitBook. This ain’t your grandma’s calorie counter—it’s a chic AF goal-setting journal that’ll have them crushing workouts, tracking those veggie victories, and having an excuse to use all those colorful pens. Plus, there’s space to stash their gym card (and maybe a few emergency credit cards for those post-workout shopping sprees).
- Cossac Fitness Journal & Workout Planner: This fitness planner will become their new gym BFF. It’s like a super-organized, stylishly designed accountability partner that’ll help them track their progress, crush their goals (hello, six-pack abs!), and inspire some motivational quotes worthy of their Insta feed. Plus, it’s way cuter than carrying around a crumpled napkin full of half-legible workout notes.
Books & Magazines.
Informative & Motivational Reads to Kickstart Their Journey.
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We’ve all been there: you just finished an epic workout, your endorphins are flowing, and you feel like you could conquer the world (or at least that StairMaster on the highest setting). But then life happens – deadlines, happy hour invites, a sudden urge to bake an entire batch of cookies–and suddenly, those fitness goals are starting to feel about as attainable as a date with their celebrity crush.
That’s why every workout newbie needs a dose of inspiration to keep those motivational fires burning bright. Honey, nothing does the trick quite like a fitness book or magazine. But not those dusty textbooks filled with complicated jargon and intimidating workout plans. It’s more like a pep talk with your coolest, fittest friend, who has a six-pack and endless workout wisdom.
They’ll be inspired by real-life success stories, practical tips, and maybe even a few juicy celebrity workout secrets (because who doesn’t love a little Hollywood glamour in their fitness routine?).
Inspiring Reads for Beginners:
- The Fitness Mindset by Brian Keane: Your friend is this close to becoming the gym queen, but their mind’s still stuck on snoozing the alarm? Try “The Fitness Mindset”—this book is like a shot of espresso for their motivation, helping them crush workouts, conquer cravings, and finally score those dream-body results (and honey, you know we’re all about those results).
- Runner’s World Magazine Subscription: Gift them a subscription to Runner’s World, and they’ll be trading those heart-eye emojis for actual runner’s highs! This magazine is like having a chatty running buddy full of excellent tips, inspiring stories, and even a little bit of tough love (because sometimes a girl needs a push to ditch the treadmill for the great outdoors).
- Strength Training Anatomy by Frederic Delavier: If your friend’s idea of “strength training” is lifting their phone to order takeout, it’s time to introduce them to “Strength Training Anatomy.” This book is basically like having X-ray vision for your muscles, showing your pal precisely what’s happening with every rep (and no, you don’t have to know what a bicep is to be totally fascinated). Trust me, knowledge is power—and in this case, it also equals a killer body.
Workout Apps.
Top-Rated Apps for Home Workouts & Gym Routines.
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Can we talk about the magical world of workout apps for a sec? Seriously, your friend can get their sweat on anywhere with just a few taps on their phone. It’s like cramming a fitness studio inside their pocket, minus the expensive monthly fees and judgmental stares (because who needs that kind of negativity in their life?).
They’ll try yoga flows that will turn them into total zen masters (namaste!), HIIT workouts that will torch calories faster than they can say “burpee,” and even dance cardio classes that will have them channeling their inner Beyoncé (hair flips encouraged).
With a suspension trainer system, they’ll tone those muscles using their body weight; it’s like having a portable jungle gym in their suitcase!
No more excuses about limited space or boring routines. With a workout app, your friend will be hooked on fitness faster than you can say “endorphin rush!”
Top Apps for Workouts:
- Future App: If your friend’s idea of a personal trainer involves awkwardly making eye contact with the buff dude at the gym, it’s time to introduce them to the magic of virtual coaching! Imagine: personalized workouts delivered straight to their phone plus a pocket-sized cheerleader who dispenses motivation and high-fives (virtually, of course). It’s like having your bestie’s very own hype squad, only way less embarrassing at the gym.
- Nike Training Club App: Your workout newbie friend needs a little extra motivation to swap those sweatpants for spandex? The Nike Training Club app is about to become their new fitness soulmate. It’s like having a super-inspirational, pocket-sized hype squad (led by actual Nike trainers!) cheering them on with personalized workouts, wellness tips, and enough positive vibes to fuel a marathon (or at least a solid jog around the block).
- Peloton App: With thousands of on-demand classes and super-inspiring instructors, it’s like having a high-energy spin studio in their living room (minus the awkward towel-sharing situations, thank goodness). Plus, the Peloton community is the most supportive group chat you’ll ever join – perfect for those days when motivation requires a side of virtual high-fives.
Wellness Wonders.
Healthy Eating Essentials.
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True wellness is about treating your entire being like the VIP it is—mind, body, and soul! Because, let’s be honest, sometimes your friend needs a break from slaying those squats to just chill and recharge those fabulous batteries.
That’s where those “ahhh”-mazing wellness gifts come in! Luxurious bath soaks that’ll turn their bathtub into a lavender-scented oasis (bye-bye, stress!).
Or maybe a plush meditation cushion so they can finally master mindfulness without getting a crick in their neck.
And for those days when their muscles are screaming for mercy after an intense workout? A soothing muscle balm or a high-tech massage gadget will make them feel like a brand-new person.
These gifts are the perfect way to show your bestie some love and help them prioritize self-care—because a bit of pampering always goes a long way!
Cookbooks for Healthy & Delicious Meals:
- The Whole30: The 30-Day Guide to Total Health and Food Freedom: Your friend’s idea of “clean eating” involves licking the cheese dust off a pizza box? It’s time to stage a healthy intervention with “The Whole30.” This book is basically a sassy best friend who’s also a nutrition master, guiding them through a 30-day food makeover that’s all about feeling amazing, not depriving themselves of fun (okay, maybe a little deprivation, but with delicious recipes, it’s totally worth it).
- Eat to Live Quick and Easy Cookbook: Dr. Fuhrman’s Cookbook is packed with insanely delicious, nutrient-rich recipes that are so simple even your takeout-loving bestie can handle them. Think drool-worthy dishes, not diet food, and yes, there’s even a whole section on desserts (because healthy living should be a manageable snoozefest). Bonus: It comes with free bonus recipes, so they’ll be whipping up culinary masterpieces faster than you can say, “Kale, yeah!”
- Run Fast. Cook Fast. Eat Slow. Quick-Fix Recipes for Hangry Athletes: This cookbook, penned by an actual Olympian (yes, that kind of Olympian), will totally change their foodie game. It’s packed with delicious recipes that are healthy enough to fuel a marathon, but also quick and easy enough for even the busiest schedule (or, you know, someone who’s just starting to exercise). Who knew healthy eating could be so freakin’ delicious?
Massage Tools.
Ultimate Pampering.
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Can we have a moment of silence for those poor, overworked muscles? You know, the ones bravely tackling those squats and lunges like it’s their job (well, technically, it is their job now). They deserve some serious pampering, don’t you think? Let’s switch the “no pain, no gain” mentality – to “treat yo’ self” recovery!
And there’s no better way to show those sore muscles some love than with a massage tool that’s basically like having a personal masseuse on speed dial (minus the awkward small talk).
Imagine foam rollers that’ll work out those kinks and knots like magic (hello, sweet relief!), massage guns that’ll blast away tension with their percussive powers (it’s as satisfying as it sounds), and those cute little spiky balls that are perfect for targeting those hard-to-reach spots (ahem, glutes, we’re looking at you).
Your friend will be thanking you (and their muscles!) for this one.
Treats for Tired Muscles:
- Therabody Theragun PRO: Your workout newbie friend complains about sore muscles? Do them a favor and snag a Theragun PRO. This magical device is a spa day for their muscles, blasting away those aches and pains so they can enjoy their newfound fitness obsession. It’s so good they’ll say “bye-bye” to post-workout soreness and “hello there” to PRs in their new favorite yoga pose. Plus, it’s whisper-quiet, so there’s no need to worry about disturbing roommates (neighbors or significant others…you get the picture).
- Hyperice Hypervolt 2: Starting a fitness routine can leave you feeling like you just survived a rodeo, right? Treat your newbie friend (or yourself, no judgment here!) to the Hypervolt 2 percussion massage gun—it’s like a mini spa day for your muscles, blasting away those aches and pains so they can enjoy their newfound athleticism. Plus, it connects to an app with guided warm-ups and recovery routines. Who couldn’t use extra help in the “stretching without pulling a hamstring” department? And the best part? It’s whisper-quiet, so they can finally ditch that foam roller that sounds like a dying walrus.
- Amazon Basics High-Density Foam Roller: This Amazon Basics High-Density Foam Roller is like a deep tissue massage on a budget, perfect for rolling out those tight muscles and channeling their inner pretzel. Trust me, the “hurts so good” feeling has them saying “namaste” to their newfound flexibility. Plus, it’s so affordable they can justify those extra fries after their workout.
Choose a gift that speaks to their personality and goals, and prepare for some serious gratitude (and maybe even a few sweaty hugs).
Remember, fitness is a journey, not a destination, and the best gifts are the ones that support your friend every step of the way.
Want to double the fun and fitness? Don’t miss my curated list of wellness gifts for couples – because sweating (and relaxing) is always better with a partner!
Have a Gift Day 🎁✨
