Shopping for the perfect gift for the active person in your life doesn’t have to be an endless hunt. We did the heavy lifting to help you stick to your budget while finding something they’ll love (and actually use, too).
When looking for fitness gifts under $50, there’s a lot to consider. But quality and safety are the most important, Heather Lachance, CPT, CNC, and owner of Made Possible Personal Training studio in St. Petersburg, FL, says. “You wouldn’t want to buy bands that snap on your mother on the first try or a strap that snaps,” she says. “Look for reviews to see what other people are saying about the product and to see if the integrity of the material is good."
The best gifts are thoughtful and made to last, so they’ll help your favorite people reach their fitness goals for the new year. Also, keep in mind that your item should be the appropriate size for the person you have in mind, or their space.
To help you find the best fitness gifts under $50, we researched dozens of options on the market and evaluated them for cost, quality, design, and more. Below, you’ll find something for just about everyone on your list.
Under $50
They’ll be comfortable no matter what the winter weather brings in these fleece-lined leggings. Each of the two side pockets is spacious enough for a large smartphone, and there’s a third concealed pocket in the waistband. They are mid- to high-rise for full, squat-proof coverage, and made with compressive material that won’t roll down minutes or miles into their workout.
BALEAF Women’s Fleece Lined Winter Leggings with Pockets
These insulated bottoms also breathe and wick sweat away, so they’ll stay cool and dry. For athletics or every day, these come in a wide range of sizes and colors that will make these a new favorite.
Price at time of publication: $40
What the Experts Say
“Baleaf is one of my go-to brands for reliable and well-made workout gear at a reasonable price. These comfy fleece leggings have just the right amount of compression, chafe-free seams, and plenty of pockets.” —Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, Verywell Fit commerce writer and product tester
Does your workout buddy always overdo it on leg day? Get them this massage gun, which delivers percussive pulses to sore muscles. Beneficial before or after a workout, it comes with eight massage heads to help target sensitive areas from head to toe. Powerful but quiet, they’re able to control the intensity with 32 speed levels.
soieho Muscle Massage Gun
Price at time of publication: $38
Whether they like to walk, run, or hike, they’ll appreciate this belt, which is designed with four stretchy pockets to hold their essentials (yep, even their phones). Its strong elastic won’t roll down, and a small clip keeps keys secure. Sold in sizes XXS to XXL, it comes in a full range of colors, and there are even adjustable variations available.
FlipBelt Classic Running Belt
Price at time of publication: $39
“This belt is awesome for storage when your clothes don’t have deep enough pockets. It stays put, and you can easily access your items when you need them.” —Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, Verywell Fit commerce writer and product tester
This warm, water-resistant puffer jacket is the perfect outer layer for chilly days or winter walks. It’s sold with a convenient storage bag that packs up small, so they can easily stash it in their gym bag during workouts. With over 25 colors to choose from and a wide size range, you’re sure to find the right fit. You can also find the women’s version here.
If they’re always making a new workout playlist, get them these sweatproof earbuds with touch control sensors and five hours of playtime. The slim pair comes with three earpiece sizes to fit any ear and is perfect for runners, lifters, walkers, and more. The pocket-sized, self-charging case lends an additional 15 hours of battery life and plugs into any USB mount.
JLab Go Air True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds
Price at time of publication: $30
“As a runner, I love JLab earbuds because they’re reliable and budget-friendly. These aren’t bulky and fit comfortably in my ears for a long period of time, plus they have a straightforward app that helps you customize the sound to your preferences.” —Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, Verywell Fit commerce writer and product tester
Jumping rope is an effective and fun cardio workout that burns calories, improves coordination, and strengthens muscles. This smart jump rope takes things to the next level with a Bluetooth app that tracks metrics like workout time, calories burned, and jump count. Its interactive interval training is challenging and even lets users connect with others to compete and unlock rewards.
Tangram Factory Rookie Smart Jump Rope
Made with smooth ball bearings, a soft rope, and a grippy handle, it can be adjusted for multiple users to share. And we like that the battery lasts a full six months between charges.
For the runner on your shopping list, these shorts offer support, coverage, and comfort. A built-in liner and light, moisture-wicking fabric will keep them cool, even in warm weather. Plus, these shorts have an interior pocket for essential items like cards or keys.
Nike Women’s Tempo Running Shorts
Price at time of publication: $32
This backpack with an included water bladder is an ideal hiking companion. It’s ergonomically designed with padded shoulders and a sternum strap to keep them comfortable on long treks. The 18-liter capacity is perfect for all their essentials, and then some. The water pack is handy for staying hydrated and has a cushioned bite valve that’s easy to clean. And we like the sewn-in rain cover, which will keep their gear dry, should the weather change en route.
Teton Sports Oasis 1100 18L Hydration Pack
Price at time of publication: $45
A welcome addition to any home gym, this medicine ball is great for building full-body strength and endurance. Weighing in at 10 pounds, it can be used for a variety of exercises like squats and slams. Plus, its tacky, rubber exterior provides a good grip.
CAP Barbell Medicine Ball
Price at time of publication: $49
This portable blender is a nifty gadget for a nutrition-focused friend. When we tested the BlendJet 2, we found that its stainless steel blade and strong motor could blend anything from protein powder to ice to veggies and fruit for on-the-go fuel.
BlendJet 2 Portable Blender
The small size means they can mix up fresh shakes and smoothies anywhere, like during their morning commute, before or after a workout, or in the break room. The cup has a tight-fitting, leak-free lid with a wristlet handle, and it comes in a range of fun colors. We love that the stable base charges up with a USB cord, so they can power up even when they’re not at home.
Price at time of publication: $50
Grab these boxing gloves by Everlast for the person who gets their workout done in the ring. With layers of quality shock absorption and full wrist-wrap protection, this pair was our pick for the best gloves for spars. They’re antimicrobial and will keep their hands cool with moisture-wicking materials and breathable mesh palms.
Everlast Pro Style Elite Boxing Gloves
Price at time of publication: $43
Whether they like to run, cycle, or golf, they’ll appreciate a pair of these polarized sunglasses. They have three interchangeable, HD lenses for reducing glare and boosting contrast. And we like that the lightweight frames are both wind- and sandproof.
Torege Polarized Sports Sunglasses
Price at time of publication: $26
Runners, walkers, and cyclists will particularly appreciate this airy, mesh vest. Its streamlined design won’t impede movement or leave them sweating underneath. We like that it comes in two different, adjustable sizes to fit most body types. And since it’s visible up to 1,200 feet away, you can trust they’ll be safe outdoors at night.
Nathan Streak Reflective Vest
For any endurance athlete who needs a quick energy boost on the fly, these gels are the gold standard. Made with honey, water, electrolytes, and B vitamins, they come in a few flavors and provide energy without being overly sweet or high in sugar. Not much bigger than a key or credit card, we like that the packets can be stashed in a concealed shorts pocket or running belt.
Honey Stinger Energy Gel
This streamlined jacket is an excellent option for walkers, runners, cyclers, or hikers. It’s waterproof, in case the weather changes, and breathable mesh lets heat escape so they won’t overheat. It’s comfortable, has plenty of storage, and folds into itself for easy packing. It’s also available in men’s sizing.
BALEAF Waterproof Windbreaker Jacket
Under $25
In cold weather, there’s nothing worse than having to take off your gloves to check your phone. That’s why we love these unisex running gloves with touchscreen-compatible fingertips for runners, walkers, or anyone who gets active outside. Stretchy and streamlined, they are breathable to let excess heat escape. They even have bonus safety elements, like grippy traction on the palms and reflective details in the logo.
New Balance Touchscreen Running Gloves
Price at time of publication: $18
Compression socks can help improve blood flow, speed up recovery, and relieve soreness. This pair is a top pick for the athlete on your list because they’re budget-friendly and effective. They are comfortable, stay up without pinching, and keep feet blister-free, thanks to a contoured toe and arch area. We recommended them as the best overall pair on the market.
Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks
Price at time of publication: $20
If the cyclist in your life could use a bit of extra comfort on their rides, this gel bike seat cushion is a sure bet. Compatible with most saddles, this seat cover easily slips over seats of stationary, mountain, or road bikes. (It’s even compatible with a Peloton bike.) We like that it’s easily adjustable, waterproof, and hand-washable.
Zacro Gel Bike Seat Cover
This headband from Aerie is a lightweight but warm ear warmer for cold days spent on the trail or the slopes. Soft to the touch, the fabric is contoured to stay securely over their ears. It’s made from recycled polyester, which breathes and wicks moisture away, keeping them toasty warm. Consider the brand’s matching gloves that snap together for a set they’ll wear for many winters to come.
OFFLINE By Aerie The Hugger Earwarmer
This basketball (our top pick for the best outdoor ball) is the perfect gift for any age or skill level to unwrap for year-round play. The grippy rubber surface is made for asphalt or concrete courts. You’ll need access to a pump to get it inflated at first—but after that, it’s game on.
Spalding NBA Street Basketball
Price at time of publication: $19
These relaxing bath bombs are a nice treat for anyone who’s often on their feet. Great for helping sore muscles recover, they have Epsom salts and moisturizing almond, jojoba, and sunflower oils to leave them feeling relaxed. Soothing lavender essential oil takes the edge off any stressful day or intense training session. The vegan-friendly formula is free from phthalates, dyes, and parabens, so it’s also gentle on sensitive skin.
Dr. Teal’s 5-Count Ultra Moisturizing Lavender Bath Bombs
Price at time of publication: $11
Whether they’re a walker or runner, this reflective band set will help them feel seen—literally. These bright, light-reflective bands for arms, wrists, legs, or ankles slap or strap on for safe, visible movement in low light. We like the adjustable Velcro’s staying power. And they can store the set in the included mesh drawstring bag when not in use.
GoxRunx Reflective Bands
Price at time of publication: $16
This towel, our top overall pick, is a cool gift for the person on your list who runs hot. Chill out by simply wetting it down with cold water and using it on overheated areas like the head, neck, or shoulders. It stays cold for a full two hours and can shield them from the sun with UPF 50 protection. Antimicrobial and machine washable, this long, soft towel will soon be their new workout staple.
Mission Max Plus Original Cooling Towel
For the outdoorsy friend who already has everything, we recommend a set of clip-on safety lights. These LEDs snap securely to their clothing, gear, or the included elastic arm bands. They are small, bright, and water resistant—plus, they come with four extra batteries that each last for 100 hours. Choose from three modes (steady, slow flash, and fast flash) in four colors to illuminate their way.
Apace Vision LED Safety Lights
If your workout buddy is always losing their beloved shaker bottle, this one is a solid replacement. During our lab tests, we found it simple to use, but effective at blending even the clumpiest protein powders into smooth beverages. The stainless steel interior is easy to clean, which prevents any odors or lingering residue. It features a tight-locking lid with a handle, so they can toss it in their gym bag or clip it on the exterior.
BlenderBottle Radian Insulated Shaker Bottle
Price at time of publication: $25
“This is a durable shaker bottle that’ll last you quite a long time.” —David Jean Louis, Verywell Fit product tester
With a variety of chocolatey, fruity, and nutty flavor combinations to choose from, Kind bars are made with wholesome ingredients to satisfy cravings on the go. Whether as a snack or a quick breakfast bite, we love the high fiber and protein packed into these little treats. (Just don’t be alarmed if they refuse to share.)
KIND Dark Chocolate Mocha Almond Bars
Price at time of publication: $15
Pamper them with a relaxing foot spa. They can fill it with water and any bath salts or oils, then sit back and let the bubbling jets soothe their tired feet. With a heating element that gently warms and massaging attachments for added recovery therapy, we love this self-care tool as an end-of-day or pre-pedicure ritual. It features a long cord and tall splash guard, so they can use it just about anywhere.
HoMedics Bubble Bliss Deluxe Foot Spa
Price at time of publication: $22
You’ll be a holiday hero when you gift them a headlamp they didn’t even know they needed. Its bright bulb and dimming modes provide whatever light they need, and the strobe setting works well when used on a pet or a bike for visibility. It tilts to the perfect angle and even keeps track of the last brightness setting, so it won’t shine full blast when they turn it on each time.
Black Diamond Astro 300 Headlamp
Not only is this headlamp comfortable, with a wide, adjustable strap, but it’s also durable, with a solid rain and sleet weatherproof rating of IPX4. Be sure to include batteries with this gift, since they’re not included.
When they’re on the go, these biodegradable body wipes will be their saving grace. Excellent for commuters, campers, and lunch break fitness class attendees, they are hypoallergenic and unscented.
DRMTLGY Biodegradable Body Wipes
An alcohol- and paraben-free, vegan formula gently cleanses away sweat and odors when a shower isn’t nearby. We love the extra large size and the resealable package that can be tossed in their bag or backpack.
Price at time of publication: $14
Under $10
Not only will this gaiter keep their neck, head, or face cool when it’s damp, but it can also offer wind protection when it’s dry. Elastic helps the fabric stay in place, and it’s reusable—they can wet it as often as they need to. Choose from four bright colors.
Chill Pal 12-in-1 Multi-Style Cooling Neck Gaiter
Price at time of publication: $10
These padded sliding discs will level up their abs workouts. Dual-sided, they glide over carpet or hardwood floors with ease. There’s also an included exercise guide, so they can get started right away. Slip these into a gift bag or basket for a thoughtful addition to any holiday present.
Gaiam Core Sliding Discs
KT Tape makes an ideal small gift for athletes because it relieves pain, improves circulation, and supports the body without restricting movement. Made from breathable cotton, this tape is flexible, water-resistant, hypoallergenic, and latex-free. We like that it comes in convenient, pre-cut strips for quick and easy application.
KT Tape Original Cotton Elastic Kinesiology Therapeutic Athletic Tape
Lip balm is a fun and practical wellness gift for any active buddy. Since working out in the gym, heat, or cold weather can be dehydrating, lip balm is great to have on hand–especially if your friend tends to misplace their tube.
Burt’s Bees Lip Balm Stocking Stuffers
We like Burt’s Bees for its gentle, natural ingredients that deliver moisturizing results. Grab this four-pack for a variety of fresh flavors they’ll love.
For Gym Lovers
Complete with a pedometer, heart rate and sleep monitors, stress meter, breathing exercises feature, and more, the Amazfit Band will help them keep an eye on their health with an easy-to-read LCD screen. They can also set it to send them helpful reminders or connect it to their Alexa to access workout music, timers, and more hands-free.
Amazfit Band 5 Activity Fitness Tracker
Its slim, low-profile design includes over 45 face options and a range of band colors to blend in with their everyday style seamlessly. We like that its battery life lasts an impressive 15 days at full power, and up to 25 days on power save mode.
Present them this Adidas bag, for toting all of their essentials to and from the gym. Our best budget pick, this duffel has spacious pockets that can haul a considerable amount of gear. Its water-resistant base protects things inside from damp floors or turf, and we love that it comes with a lifetime warranty. They can grab it and go using the shoulder strap or convenient carry loop that’s also a handy place to clip items like shoes, water bottles, or keys.
Adidas Defender 4 Small Duffel Bag
Price at time of publication: $35
Give the gift of self-therapeutic massage with this foam roller, which has a contoured surface that’s designed to dig into pressure points and achy muscles. Its compact length makes storage simple, while the hollowed-out middle can fit other workout gear inside—ideal for anyone with a small home gym.
Trigger Point Performance GRID 1.0 Foam Roller
During our tests, we found it easy to control and effective. The foam felt sturdy but also had some give, making this roller a great option for beginners. We love the variety of colors and patterns, too.
Price at time of publication: $37
“This foam roller is very effective. It feels like excellent quality, and I like the aesthetic of the branding and design. It feels more expensive than it is, honestly!” —Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, Verywell Fit commerce writer and product tester
Lifters, gymnasts, and climbers will love this low-mess, dust-free liquid chalk. An excellent stocking stuffer or gift basket addition, this pocket-sized squeeze bottle has a carabiner they can clip to their shorts or gym bag, so it will always be close by. It’s odorless and non-toxic, and doesn’t sweat off easily, like other liquid chalks.
Fire Team Fit Liquid Chalk
Price at time of publication: Starting at $12
This versatile pair of sneakers works for a variety of workouts, sports, or just running errands. They’re breathable, plus they offer great support and cushioning for strength training, all-day wear, and everything in between. The modern design is available in a rainbow of colors, so there’s a style for everyone.
UMYOGO Women’s Running Shoe
“These are becoming popular cross trainers in gyms, thanks to their versatility and cool design. I’ve seen people who are on their feet a lot wear them in the office, too, so you know they’re comfortable.” —Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, Verywell Fit commerce writer and product tester
For lifters, martial arts athletes, or gymnasts, a reliable pair of wrist wraps is a must. These from Rip Toned are our top overall pick because they’re fully adjustable, with a reinforced thumb loop for better durability. Choose from a variety of colors, patterns, and stiffness options to find the pair they’ll use every day.
Rip Toned Wrist Wraps
Gift the yoga fan in your life this Gaiam mat, available in dozens of vibrant, reversible colors and patterns. Its 6-millimeter thickness offers the perfect amount of cushioning, with a slip-free texture for a better grip. Ideal for beginners and advanced students alike, we also love that it’s latex-free.
Gaiam 6mm Yoga Mat
“I’d definitely recommend this Gaiam mat, especially for beginners. It’s high quality, affordable, and comes in a ton of great patterns. The 6-millimeter thickness has the perfect grip and cushioning for a great class experience.” —Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, Verywell Fit commerce writer and product tester
This Nalgene bottle is a thoughtful present you can gift as-is or fill with their favorite treats. BPA-, BPS-, and phthalate-free, it’s lightweight, but sturdy enough to go with them on all kinds of outdoor adventures.
Nalgene Sustain Tritan BPA-Free Water Bottle, 32-Ounce
We love that it’s stain and odor-resistant, and can hold both hot and cold beverages. Its wide mouth is easy to fill with large ice cubes or a water bottle filter, and has a tight-locking lid that can attach to a bag. And it comes in a rainbow of colors to suit every taste.
A new pair of streamlined goggles makes a great pocket-sized present or stocking stuffer for any swimmer. With wide, panoramic, anti-fog lenses, our top overall pick for the best goggles around has an adjustable, silicone head strap to stay comfortably snug during laps. Choose a pair with or without light-reflecting, mirrored lenses, which are great for sensitive eyes or outdoor swims. We like that they come in several colors and include four interchangeable nose pieces—plus, they have UVA- and UVB-ray protection.
Speedo Mirrored Vanquisher 2.0 Swim Goggles
When buying for a strength-training devotee, we love this lifting belt. It’s flexible and comfortable, with a heavy-gauge steel roller buckle that makes it easy to adjust. Foam padding keeps their core supported, but not constricted. Our top budget-friendly pick, we like this belt because it’s simple, but effective.
Dark Iron Fitness Lifting Belt
Price at time of publication: $24
A shower caddy is a useful present for someone who hits the gym facilities after their workout. We love this one from REI Co-op for its simple, spacious design. It’s made from recycled, water-resistant materials and easily hangs from any rod or shower head. It even has a removable mirror and a toiletry kit. When they’re done, they can roll it up tight using the hanger strap. This cool caddy comes in earthy hues and two sizes, depending on their preference.
Rei Shower Roll
A heating pad can provide some much-needed relief after tough workouts. This electric heating pad warms up quickly to help stiff areas of the body relax. Its large, flexible design can cover their back or wrap around legs and shoulders.
Pure Enrichment PureRelief XL Electric Heating Pad
They can switch between multiple heat settings using an LCD screen and large buttons. We also love the soft, cozy cover that’s machine washable and comes in a few colors. And when it’s not being used, they can store it in a convenient bag.
For Beginners
These weighted wristband bracelets are a stylish and functional way to incorporate more resistance into their routine. Perfect for yoga, Pilates, cardio, or everyday errands, they each weigh 1 pound and are comfortable for all ages or fitness levels. We like that they can also be worn on your ankles and the chic, neutral shade range that compliments any outfit or taste.
Bala Bangles 1 Pound Wrist & Ankle Weights
“I’ve used my fair share of ankle weights and nothing motivates me to add power to my workouts like the Bala Bangles do. Cheaper products are often bulky, flimsy, and moisture-retaining—lacking the versatility, adjustability and (of course) style that the Bala Bangles deliver.” —Michelle Parente, commerce writer and Verywell Fit product tester
With such a simple design, this clever two-in-one yoga mat carrier and studio support sling was made for your flexible, no-fuss friend. The compact design fits on either end of a mat for transporting to and from the studio, then doubles as a strap to help them stretch even deeper during class. It’s smooth to the touch, durable, and comes in a range of lovely hues that will compliment any mat.
Alo Yoga Mat Strap
Delight any lululemon lover with this headband, our top overall pick, which will keep their hair happy during workouts. Not only do we love it for its sweat-wicking, stretchy fabric (which is also found in some of the brand’s best leggings), but the velvet-lined interior also stays in place without any breakage or frizz. It’s budget-friendly, machine washable, and comes in a range of bright colors.
Lululemon Fly Away Tamer Headband
Price at time of publication: $12
For the Peloton lover on your list, we like these yoga blocks. One of many accessories from the fan-favorite fitness brand, their yoga sessions help riders and runners hop off their machines to mix up their training routines.
Peloton Yoga Blocks
These blocks help support and challenge all levels of users, with sturdy EVA foam and three height levels. Even if they’re not a Peloton member, we still recommend these sleek and solid yoga blocks for their excellent quality and versatility.
Often as effective as free weights, but cheaper and gentler, resistance bands are an excellent tool for building strength and improving mobility and stability. This set is versatile and challenging, with multiple levels of resistance that are easy to transition between during their workouts. Used one at a time or combined with others in the set, the clippable tube bands can stack up to 150 pounds of resistance. And the loop bands are ideal for yoga, Pilates classes, and more.
Kootek 18-Pack Resistance Bands Set
We love the additional accessories, including ankle straps, a door anchor, and a pair of core sliders. Perfect for home gyms or travel, it all packs up into a toteable storage bag—and it was our top pick for the best variety pack of bands on the market.
“This resistance band set is a great addition to any home gym. It’s a handy tool whether you’re a beginner or just can’t make it to the gym due to time or travel. I’ve even taken mine on vacation!” —Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, Verywell Fit commerce writer and product tester
Know someone who likes to work out at home? Adjustable dumbbells can save them money and space. By adding weighted discs to the ends, each dumbbell in this set can be adjusted from just over 2 pounds to 4.5. Since they’re smaller and lighter than other sets, these weights are great for beginners.
NiceC Adjustable Dumbbell Pair
This mat is a great foundation for Pilates, bodyweight exercises, yoga, and more. At 13 millimeters (or about half an inch), it’s thicker than most other yoga mats. When we tested this mat, we loved the long length, convenient strap, and overall comfort. It’s also slip- and moisture-resistant, easy to clean, and backed by a two-year warranty.
BalanceFrom GoYoga All-Purpose Yoga Mat
“The 1/2-inch, high-density foam material was thick enough to cushion me against the hard floor without impeding my ability to flow through my routine.” —Joline Buscemi, Verywell Fit commerce writer and product tester
For anyone who struggles to stay motivated to work out, this game can be a fun way to mix up a routine, literally, without throwing in the towel. Roll the dice for a spontaneous circuit of squats, planks, burpees, high knees, and more. A set of four yellow dice explains which exercises to do, while the single green die shows how many reps each move gets. It’s a clever present they’ll love to open (and actually use).
Skywin Workout Dice
This weighted, cordless jump rope provides the same cardio workout as a traditional rope—but its compact design means it can be used indoors or during circuit workouts at the gym. It has a built-in counter that tracks number of jumps, calories burned, and more.
RENPHO Cordless Jump Rope
And, if it turns out they miss traditional skipping, we love that it also comes with an adjustable PVC steel rope. (No gift receipt needed!)
This portable pedaler will help them feel the burn while they’re working or watching TV. It fits under a desk and folds up for easy storage. A small screen clearly tracks their stats, like total distance and revolutions per minute.
Drive Medical Deluxe Folding Pedal Exerciser
This set of eight glass containers is extra handy for meal preppers. Each dish has three organized compartments to pack delicious, well-rounded lunches and dinners. The tight-locking lid keeps things fresh and leak-free. We like that they stack nicely in the freezer or fridge, and that they’re safe to put in the oven and the microwave.
Bayco 8 Pack Glass Meal Prep Containers
For a unique present no one else will give them, pick up this board, which will help them improve their balance and stability. This durable, natural wood board is challenging, yet easier to control than others, with its grippy surface and manageable size. It’s also simple to store, so it makes a good gift for anyone who has a small space or lots of other fitness equipment at home.
StrongTek Professional Wooden Balance Board
What to Look For in Fitness Gifts Under $50
Price
Quality
Whatever your budget, make sure your gift is made well. “Quality will be something that saves you money in the long haul and it will also greatly reduce your risk of injury,” Caleb Herman, CPT, Certified Emotion Code and Body Code Expert at Lifetime Fitness in Des Moines, Iowa, says.
Both he and Cervantes warn against buying cheaper items at the risk of getting a faulty piece of equipment, an unsafe supplement, or just plain scammed. Beware of trendy fads—instead, go with a reputable company with good reviews, they advise. “If it seems too good to be true, don’t buy it,” Herman adds.
Fitness Goals
Consider the fitness goals of the person you’re shopping for and what type of item might help them achieve them. Have they expressed a desire to get healthier through weight loss, or get stronger, faster, or gain a happier, more balanced mindset? Are they interested in beginning a particular sport, workout style, or type of class?
“If [their] goals are to gain strength, buy weights! If [they] have weights, look into a piece of cardio equipment, especially if [they] can’t get outside during the winter months. Or perhaps [they] have all of that and just need a recovery tool,” Herman says.
It’s also important to be thoughtful and sensitive to how your friend or loved one might respond to your gift. Just because someone is health-focused, doesn’t mean they want to lose weight. Keep your audience and their values in mind to find them a present they’ll love to receive.
Practicality
When shopping for a fitness gift, take your recipient’s interests, goals, and tastes into account. “Depending on who I am buying for, I ensure I am shopping for their specific sport,” Cervantes says. “But if I don’t know, I will ask around,” since other friends may have great insights, too.Also, consider the size of the gift and their home or storage space, especially in the case of workout equipment. You’ll also want to ensure it’s appropriate to their fitness level, especially if they’re a beginner, adds Lachance, who says “try not to give an ab roller to someone who can’t do a plank correctly yet.” Clothing and accessories should be comfortable and in their preferred size, if applicable.
When in doubt, ask them, Herman says. “If you are gifting to someone else, just ask them what they would like in regards to getting healthier!”
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, understands the joy and challenge of shopping for the perfect gift for someone on your list. For this guide, she prioritized trustworthy brands that fit various budgets, interests, and fitness goals. Jessica favors eco-conscious brands that promote inclusivity in their products, and she is dedicated to reporting authentic content to her readers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What do athletes like as gifts?
- “Athletes enjoy nearly anything that is new or an enhancement to what they already have or are doing,” Herman says. “A new weight belt, a new pair of running shoes, or new workout attire is always a great gift!” If they don’t have a gym membership, an athlete would love new equipment, like a basketball, running gear, weights, or resistance bands for their home or outdoor workouts.And don’t forget about gifts for rest and recovery, Lachance says. “They work hard in the gym but have a hard time finding ways to recover at home,” she explains. “You could get them whatever $50 worth of massage would get you. That way they can come back to the gym feeling better than ever!” Consider at-home massage or relaxation gifts, like HoMedics Bubble Bliss Deluxe Foot Spa or Pure Enrichment’s PureRelief XL Heating Pad.
- What is the best gift for a gym lover?
- The gym lover might appreciate items specific to their facility, like a few training sessions, a massage gift card, merchandise, or even new attire to wear to their favorite classes, according to Herman and Cervantes. Gaiam’s 6 mm Yoga Mat or Nalgene’s Sustain Wide Mouth Water Bottle are sure-to-please picks for most gym goers. “Gym bags are a good option too,” suggests Cervantes, like Adidas’ Defender 4 Small Duffel Bag. And if all else fails, “they like any phone tripod that can hold their phone for recording lifts and exercises,” she adds.
- What goes in a wellness gift basket?
- If you just can’t choose one gift under $50, there are plenty of little items you can combine in a gift bag or basket. “I personally do wellness baskets for my clients,” Herman says. “Many of these are my favorite daytime snacks—apples, beef sticks, raw carrots, a recipe for a healthy dinner, resistance bands, and a $20 gift card to their favorite fitness store!” Other gift basket or stocking stuffer ideas that our expert trainers love include travel-size toiletries, chapsticks, kinesiology tape, and healthy, single-serve foods like Honey Stinger’s Gold Energy Gel. You might want to add a slightly larger item or two that ties everything together, like a fitness book, a towel, resistance bands, or a shaker cup (like the BlendJet 2 Portable Blender) with a protein mix or powder inside.
“Athletes enjoy nearly anything that is new or an enhancement to what they already have or are doing,” Herman says. “A new weight belt, a new pair of running shoes, or new workout attire is always a great gift!” If they don’t have a gym membership, an athlete would love new equipment, like a basketball, running gear, weights, or resistance bands for their home or outdoor workouts.
The gym lover might appreciate items specific to their facility, like a few training sessions, a massage gift card, merchandise, or even new attire to wear to their favorite classes, according to Herman and Cervantes.
If you just can’t choose one gift under $50, there are plenty of little items you can combine in a gift bag or basket. “I personally do wellness baskets for my clients,” Herman says. “Many of these are my favorite daytime snacks—apples, beef sticks, raw carrots, a recipe for a healthy dinner, resistance bands, and a $20 gift card to their favorite fitness store!”
