It’s that time of year again, time to agonize over what to get for our loved ones for Christmas. I wish more people had wish lists on Amazon. It’d make things so much easier! Right???So if you’re like me and struggling to finish up your holiday shopping list, I’ve at least got all your fit friends and family members covered. You’re on your own for the rest. 😉
$25 and Under
1. Wordlock 5-Dial Combination Lock
$9.70, amazon.com
How many times have you forgotten your combination, especially when you haven’t used the lock in a while? And then you have to buy a new one. What a waste. That’s why I really like this lock that you can set with an easy-to-remember 5-letter word (of 100,000 possible combinations).
2. The Grid Mini Foam Roller
$24.99, tptherapy.com or amazon.com
Foam rollers hurt so good when we have sore and tight muscles. Unfortunately, they are pretty cumbersome to carry around, and forget about traveling with it. Well, here’s your answer — the Grid Mini foam roller. This roller is a condensed but no less effective version of its larger cousin, plus all the bumps and ridges really dig into those tight spots.
At 4 inches by 5.5 inches, it’s small enough to pack in your suitcase for those inevitable travel-related aches and pains. Take it to the office and use it against the wall instead of the floor to give your back some love after hours hunched over your keyboard. And I love that, unlike traditional foam rollers, it is made of a hard plastic core surrounded by EVA foam, so you get more pressure and a whole new level of relief and recovery.
3. QALO Silicone Rings
$24.95 and up, qalo.com (currently offering Buy 1, get 1 50% off for limited time, free shipping $40+)
Why would anyone need or want a silicone ring? Well, when you don’t want to go without your ring, yet are scared it’s going to get scuffed, it’s a safe, functional alternative to the traditional metal ones. It’s tricky trying to figure out what to do with a wedding or engagement ring, or for that matter, any other precious ring. If you wear it while lifting weights or doing physical work, you risk damaging it. If you stow it in your gym bag, you risk losing it or it getting stolen. Neither one is a great option. But wearing a silicone ring takes that risk away. These durable rings can take a beating and come in several colors and designs.
3. Race Bib Coasters
$25, etsy.com
Most runners have a whole stack of race bibs just lying around the house with no idea of how to display them. Or they just throw them away. 🙁 But thanks to this cool idea, you can help that favorite runner in your life commemorate PR-crushing races with these handmade coasters. If you don’t have time to order or you just like that whole DIY thing, you can easily make your own.
4. The Ultimate Protein Pow(d)er Cookbook by Anna Sward
$16.68, amazon.com
All fitness buffs know how important protein is in a healthy diet, but it can be tough to get in enough each day to support our goals. Protein powder is a convenient supplement. And it’s not just for shakes anymore.
Anna Sward, of the popular blog proteinpow.com, shares more than 150 easy-to-follow recipes for protein powder pancakes, breads, muffins, cookies, pizza, and more — gluten-free, easy, and delicious! She includes the healthiest of ingredients to go with the protein powder, so it’s not just a junk food boosted with protein, but actually a nourishing treat.
$50 and Under
“Unapologetically Strong” Tank
$30, jensinkler.com/shop
My girl Jen Sinkler is a genius for coming up with catchy and powerful mottos and smart fitness programs. I own quite a few of her flattering and fun clothing items, as well as pretty much every program she puts out. She’s that good. #noshame
I’ll let her explain the origins of the phrase “Unapologetically Strong”:
“The full backstory behind how this phrase came to be is at the “Unapologetically Strong” post (and I encourage you to read it!), but I’ll give you the quick and dirty:
You know those conversations you have where you end up apologizing for what you know are your strengths, or downplaying them in some way?
Yeeaaaahhh, about that. What if we didn’t do that anymore? What if we were – all of us in our own way – Unapologetically Strong?”
This Alternative Apparel tank is 100% cotton and fits true to size.
Valslides
$29.95, amazon.com
These plastic gliders are lightweight and portable, making them a must-have for travel workouts. My favorite exercises with Valslides are reverse lunges, leg curls, and ab single arm slide-outs. The possibilities are endless. This package includes: (2) ValSlide discs, (1) mesh carry bag, and (1) Valslide exercise sheet.
FlipBelt
$28.99, amazon.com
I love this belt, made of 92% micropoly and 8% lycra, for lifting weights and doing outdoor runs. It’s super stretchy, soft (no chafing!), and will stay put all day (huge prob with other belts). There are multiple access pocket openings throughout belt, and you just flip it over so the openings are on the inside against your body. It comes in multiple colors and sizes XS-XL, wicks sweat and dries quickly. And just throw in the washing machine and dryer to to get it clean and fresh-smelling again.
Over $50
9. Athleta Chaturanga Tight
$79, athleta.com
The ultimate in comfort and quality. The Chat tight comes in regular, tall, petite, and plus sizes, as well as a nice variety of colors, patterns, and fabrics. The pockets make it easy to stash your key, ID, or lip balm. These leggings are a staple in my workout wardrobe. They’re flattering, with a high-rise fit that stays put through any workout sesh without the annoying chaffing and discomfort caused by a too-tight waistband.
10. Lululemon Vinyasa Wrap
$58, lululemon.com
Is it a scarf or is it a wrap? Yes and yes. The versatility of this item makes this a must-have. The fabric is so soft, and snaps and arm holes let you customize the fit to you. I always take mine when I travel, as I can use it as a scarf or blanket if I get cold (and I’m always cold), or a pillow if I want to catch some shut-eye. It’s thin enough to be worn year-round.
11. Lululemon All-Day Duffle
$158, lululemon.com
This is a recent aquisition for me, and so far I’m loving this bag! All the pockets keep my stuff organized and in easy reach. There’s even a place for my laptop. Got stinky wet clothes or shoes? There’s a seperate pocket for that. Heading to yoga class? Stick your mat in the yoga mat straps and keep your hands free. And bonus, if you’re rushing to get back to work or out with the girls post-workout, it has a heat-resistent pocket to stow your hot hair straightener.
12. Athleta Coaster Sweatpant
$79, athleta.com
These are hands-down the most comfortable, softest sweatpants ever! I love the relaxed fit and straight leg. ‘Cause sometimes you just don’t want to be all sucked in by your usual leggings. Your legs want some room to breathe! 🙂 The pockets lie flat instead of flaring out or adding bulk like so many other sweats. I’m actually wearing a pair of these right now as I write this post.
Available in regular, petite, and tall sizes. Size up if you want a roomier feel.