Embracing Fitness: The Best Gifts for Your Active Friends

As a senior editor at Allure, my days are often filled with the latest beauty and wellness trends, but my nights and mornings are dedicated to a different kind of passion—fitness. Working out is not just a hobby for me; it’s an essential part of my routine that helps to clear my mind and boost my self-esteem. Whether I’m tackling a long run or pushing myself through a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) class, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of accomplishment I get after a good sweat session.

Along with my fellow beauty editors, I’ve compiled a list of perfect gifts for your active friends, regardless of their fitness levels. From those just dipping their toes into the world of fitness to seasoned marathon trainers, these gift ideas are guaranteed to inspire and support anyone’s fitness journey. Let’s dive into our curated selection!

Top Picks for Active Friends

Running: Garmin Forerunner 165

Jesa Marie Calaor
For any novice runner seeking great motivation, I highly recommend the Garmin Forerunner 165. This watch is a game-changer for training, equipped with GPS for tracking speed, distance, and pace, along with heart rate monitoring. With additional features, such as recovery insights and indoor sports apps, the interface remains straightforward—perfect for beginners not yet ready to utilize every bell and whistle.

Running: Asics Magic Speed 4

Sarah Kinonen
"My go-to sneakers while training for the New York City Marathon are the Asics Magic Speed 4," says Kinonen. With her extensive experience in testing out countless styles, she describes these sneakers as the ‘Goldilocks’—lightweight yet supportive, making them ideal for long distances. Plus, the vibrant color combinations, particularly her blue and green pair, add a fun element to any running ensemble.

Dance: Girlfriend Collective Black Paloma Racerback Bra

Kara McGrath
For those who engage in dance or cardio classes, finding the right sports bra is essential. McGrath recommends the Girlfriend Collective’s Paloma Racerback Bra. With a range of sizes from XXS to 6XL, this bra offers comfort without the hassle of removable cups, making it perfect for anyone with a larger bust, especially during high-energy dance workouts.

Pilates: Balanced Body Metro IQ Pilates Reformer

For the at-home fitness enthusiast, Jen Hussein swears by the Balanced Body Metro IQ Pilates Reformer. Compact yet effective, this reformer offers the same resistance and flexibility as boutique machines without taking up too much space in your apartment. It’s a favorite for private practice, providing a quality workout without the noise typically associated with larger models.

Pilates: Alo Pulse Grip Socks

Kinonen and I love using Alo’s gripping socks during our SolidCore classes. These socks enhance our stability while providing the flexibility needed for dynamic movements. Plus, the sleek design pairs well with any workout gear, giving you a touch of convenience and style.

Hot Yoga: Wolven Onyx Onesie

"When it comes to hot yoga, I prioritize comfort and coverage," explains Talia Gutierrez. Her choice is the Wolven Onyx Onesie, which is thick enough to prevent any see-through mishaps while remaining stretchy and breathable—perfect for those intense 90-minute sessions.

HIIT: Nike V2k Run Sneaker

Gutierrez also shares her love for the Nike V2k Run sneakers, emphasizing their comfort and supportive design. These shoes offer an excellent combination of style and functionality, making them ideal for the intensity of HIIT workouts while still coordinating flawlessly with casual wear.

HIIT Workouts: Apple Watch Series 10

Kinonen is an ardent fan of her Apple Watch, especially during HIIT workouts. With its upgraded sensors and larger display, the Series 10 can monitor heart rates and calories efficiently. It’s an essential tool for anyone pushing themselves to new heights in their fitness journey.

Recovery: HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket

Recovery is just as crucial as the workouts themselves. Hussein enjoys the benefits of the HigherDose Infrared Sauna Blanket, which provides soothing heat on sore muscles post-workout while also doubling as a cozy extra layer on cold days.

All Workouts: Owala FreeSip

Also on Kinonen’s must-have list is the Owala FreeSip water bottle, which she refers to as her "emotional support water bottle." This innovative design allows users to sip from both a straw and a spout, making hydration easy and hassle-free at the gym or on the go.

All Workouts: Calpak Luka Duffel

McGrath relies on the Calpak Luka Duffel for her studio sessions. With dedicated compartments for shoes, weights, and post-workout essentials, this weekender bag is highly functional and perfect for bustling between workouts and work meetings.

Recovery: Therabody JetBoots Prime

For leg recovery, I highly recommend the Therabody JetBoots Prime. These boots use air compression technology for soothing circulation, offering relief after challenging workout sessions.

Recovery: Loop Dream Earplugs

For those who struggle with noisy environments, Gutierrez uses Loop Dream Earplugs to ensure a restful night’s sleep. Effective in blocking out city sounds, they help maintain her energy for early morning workouts.

Concluding Thoughts

Finding gifts for your active friends doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By considering their specific fitness interests and needs, you can choose something meaningful and supportive of their goals. Whether they need motivation to kickstart their journey or tools to help them recover and thrive, the right gift can be a thoughtful gesture that showcases your support for their health and well-being.

For more gift-spiration, check out our ultimate holiday gift guide for 2024. Happy gifting!