75 Fitness Items That Any Active Guy Will Love

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Picking up some new fitness gear is one of the best ways to breathe new life into a workout regimen—or end a months-long hiatus. (Of course, sometimes you just need a new workout. For a fitness program that will bust through any plateau, try THE 21-DAY METASHRED from Men’s Health!)

Whether you’re looking to delight your fittest family member or ramp up your own efforts in the gym, you’ll find more than a few things on this list to get the job done.

And if you’re already on a roll with your workouts, consider this the time to reward yourself for your efforts. Go on, you’ve earned it.

Great fitness gifts have to perform. Whether you lace them up, consume them, or use them to recover after a big workout, the top fitness gifts must stand tall and deliver to impress its recipient. We've got the best list of fitness gifts here in the last week before Christmas, with curated picks that are still in stock (at the time of this writing) and have fast-shipping availability.

Best Last-Minute Fitness Gifts

• Most Popular Gift: Quick Dry 5-Pack Active Tees, $39

• Most Unique: Ice Barrel 300, $1199

• Best Stocking Stuffer: Yeti Yonder Water Bottle, $25

• Best Splurge Gift: Select Tech Dumbbells, $429

• Best Recovery Gift: Normatec 3 Legs, $699

• Best Home Gym Gift: Amazon Power Rack, $330

• Best Footwear Gift: On Cross Training Shoes, $150

• Best Under $100: Athletic Greens, Varies

• Best Under $50: MH 90-Day Challenge, $27

Our team of fitness editors and writers here at Men's Health know that fitness doesn't stop at the gym. We have the experience to understand that fitness extends to the home, city park, trail, mountain—the list goes on. It incorporates any number of worthwhile physical activities, from weight-lifting and rowing to running and cross-training, which is why the best fitness gifts have to be versatile and functional.

What kind of fitness gifts will you find below? Well, proven fitness items that we experienced firsthand and have impressed us with their performance, design, and value. For example, a sophisticated and stylish ring that's also a health tracker and a recovery towel that will cool you to the core when the sweat is pouring. We even have fitness apps and memberships that can heighten routines and help fitness lovers and beginners achieve even more.

Here they are, the best fitness gifts for 2023.

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Ice Barrel 300

Cool it way down with this recovery barrel. It's made of durable recycled plastic and the foam insulation keeps things cold. It's hip-high so getting in and out is easy and while you're chilling, there's even a small seat to keep you in position.

Read more: Best Cold Plunge Tubs

Fitness Reality Squat Rack Power Cage with | Optional Lat Pulldown & Leg Holdown Attachment | Squat and Bench Rack Combos| Super Max 810 XLT |

Infrared Sauna Blanket

A sauna in the form of a sleeping bag, this is the ultimate gift for the fitness person who loves a deep relaxation session in between physical activities. This infrared sauna blanket soothes, is great for your skin, and helps the body recharge fully and efficiently.

Multi-Functional Power Rack

Here's a frame for the fitness freaks out there. It's a proper power rack set up with dip handles and j-hooks for all those gym exercises. With a 1,000-pound weight capacity, it's not messing around. Make 2024 the year of fitness.

5 Pack Men’s Active Quick Dry Crew Neck T Shirts

Don't just have one favorite fitness shirt when you can have one for every day of the week. This bargain bundle of crew neck tees is ideal, as they dry quickly and feel great even in the throes of a cross-training session or long jog.

Cloud X 3 AD Cross Training Sneaker

Easily the best-looking cross training sneakers we've come across, this pair also performs. Propulsive with tons of support, they sit atop one of the coolest and most functional outsoles we've experienced.

Commercial Series 1250 Incline Treadmill

This treadmill brings the hilly slopes that really work your legs to your home. The ten-inch pivoting touchscreen is a nice touch and the built-in trainer adjusts to your running approach via Bluetooth.

Serrano Shorts 5"

Run in style with these artsy short shorts from Roark. Lightweight and unlined, they come with two splash pockets and rear and side stash zones.

Read more: Best Running Shorts

Hydrow Rower

Row whenever you want to with this sleek rowing machine. You get on-demand water workouts with pros and the sensation is about as good as the real thing (minus the sometimes foul weather). The design is extremely ergonomic and it folds up nicely when not in use.

SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells

Great home gym gear needs to be versatile as you only have so much space to work with and, sometimes, that space is reserved for other things when the fitness session is over. These adjustable dumbbells are ideal for at-home use, offering 10-90 pounds per dumbbell, convenient holders, and a smooth weight adjustment mechanism.

90-Day Challenge Bundle

Shock the arms. Chisel the abs. Welcome to the 90-day bundle.

Yonder Water Bottle

Make drinking water all the easier and more enjoyable with this standout pick from Yeti. It's made to be ultra-light, indestructible, and 100% leakproof (no seriously, the cap stays on lock tight).

Pod Cover

Great sleep is all about personalized climate and an optimal, restful environment. The Pod cover virtually guarantees that, tackling climate and working around the sleep schedule you help program. Whether you like the chilly, camping-like feel or a warm environment for maximum Zzz's, this gadget is ready to help.

4.0 with 12 Month Subscription

Fitness trackers should be as comfortable as a good pair of running shoes or your favorite hoodie. WHOOP is all about comfort, while setting you up with all the necessary fitness info to maximize your routine. According to Fitness Director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S., Whoop does well is this: It delivers in-depth tracking of your workout intensities, letting you know when you're ready to go hard and when you might want to consider (but don't need to) taking it easy. For less than $250, you can gift the device, wristband, and a 12-month membership to anyone in your life (including yourself).

AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) Wireless Ear Buds

Some ear buds are superior when it comes to tuning into a playlist or podcast while working out. Here's a great example, touting a snug fit, great acoustics and sweat resistance.

G-VEST+

Your workout is only as good as the tools and equipment used in it. This high-functioning weighted vest distributes weight evenly and is great to throw on before a strength and conditioning set or just some added resistance as you knock out a core workout. It's one of our all-time favorites, as mentioned in our 2023 Home Gym Awards.

Athletic Greens

Fitness requires fuel. Here's a great gift to keep that active person feeling great, an elixir of greens packed with minerals, nutrients and vitamins.

Ballistic Trainers

If backyard training is the name of your game, these are your go-to shoes. They're agile while tough, built for everything from strength training in your driveway to cross-fit and mobility training in your yard. They'll complement the outdoor workout experience with superior comfort and are extremely durable.

Fenix 7S Sapphire Solar Smartwatch

This fitness smartwatch is ready for the adventurous lifestyle, set up with solar charing capabilities and an earthy band. It'll track your health, coach you through hikes and trail runs while offering superior navigation technology and all your favorite music for on-the-go inspiration.

Heritage

A ring that does it all, the Oura delivers intelligent sleep, vitals, and activity tracking info to the wearer in useful ways. It's a great and fairly discreet (and stylish even) way to monitor your vitals and foster better wellness routines. Great for those who don a second fitness tracking device to cross-reference data, because you likely won't want to wear this in the gym when lifting heavy. Keep in mind: The first month of membership is complementary, but each month thereafter will cost $5.99.

Read more: Oura Ring Review

NÜOBELL 80LB Adjustable Dumbbell

The Nuobell strikes the perfect balance between dependable performance and an authentic dumbbell experience. Consider these a level up from lower price-point adjustable models. Despite a couple of minor scratches, they have demonstrated remarkable durability even with consistent heavy usage, too.

Nomatec3 Legs

Recovery comes in many forms and for those looking for the most robust approach, it's hard to beat the Nomatec3. With customized compression, this device has become trusted by some of the top athletes in the land to replenish fatigued joints and muscles.

Stretching Strap for Physical Therapy

It's hard to beat a good stretch. Coaches and physical therapists wax on about the practice all the time and for valid reason: Stretching is good for you. Inject the practice for good in your routine with this special strap, ideal for physical therapy and becoming for flexible.

Hyperice Normatec 3 - Recovery System with Patented Dynamic Compression Massage Technology (Normatec 3 Standard Size Legs) FSA-HSA Approved

Bluetooth Beanie Hat Headphones

Cold weather is coming but that doesn't have to stop anybody's fitness regiment. Simple tweaks can keep it all running smoothly, like the addition of this beanie, which both insulates and provides some inspiring jams by way of Bluetooth headphones.

All-in-One Suspension Training System

Strength training sounds expensive. What, with the many gadgets and towering machines at play. Turns out, you can get a killer workout in without breaking the bank through this suspension training system. The resistance levels can be fine-tuned and the user can target just about all of the muscle groups.

Heart Rate Monitor Chest Strap

Be good to your heart. Here's a great gift for the fitness figure who likes to go hard, within reason. Compatible with a bunch of workout devices, the strap is comfortable and offers important data for endurance go-getters especially.

ACTIVE Outdoor Wet Wipes

Sure, a trusty old towel can do the trick at the gym but these wet wipes are much better (and more sanitary). And they're designed to go well beyond the traditional workout sphere, on backcountry adventures and long days on the ski slopes. Biodegradable and moisturizing, they're frankly better than that old gym towel.

Crusher Evo Over-Ear Wireless Headphones

Great for the active soul who loves to go to the gym but maybe doesn't love the gym's playlist, these workout headphones are here to help. They fit great, standing up to all the movement of a good workout while offering some top-grade acoustics. That's enough to pump anybody up.

Men's Health MVP Premium Membership

Maybe we're biased, but we think our MVP Premium Membership is a total slum dunk for any fitness lover or beginner. With unlimited access to Men's Health digital content and a weekly newsletter loaded with exclusive tips on fitness, nutrition, and mental health, they'll stay ahead of the game. Plus, they get access to fitness challenges, nutrition plans, a print magazine subscription, AND, most importantly, a library of 450+ streaming workout classes on the All Out Studio app. This is the gift that keeps on giving.

Reaction Training Platform

Fitness is more fun when it's a game, just ask pretty much every sport out there. This training platform appeals to our most basic instincts (you know, attraction to bright lights, a competitive grudge with your workout buddy), making that core-busting set or agility training drill all the more fun.

Hot Yoga Towel

Hot yoga is, well, hot. And with that comes a lot of sweat. This towel is perfect for the yogi who likes to do their thing in stifling conditions, offering a super-absorbent suede microfiber that will be greeted with open arms at the end of the workout.

Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle

Here's a great gift for the pickleball enthusiast and newbie alike. Simply put, it handles like a charm, with an ergonomic handle and a composite hitting surface that strikes hard while feeling soft on the hands.

Freestanding Punching Bag

The active body on your list doesn't have to be a boxing nut to enjoy a good punching bag. This freestanding tool is great for all levels, a prime stress-reducer and great way to work on hand-eye coordination.

Peloton Guide

A handy bit of tech indeed, this device turns your television into your own personal trainer. That's excellent news for those who like to get their sweats in at home, preferably to a virtual session that streams so clearly it feels like you're all working out together in the same room.

Seamless Tank

Does he like to lift? Perhaps he just likes hoops or another arm-heavy activity like tennis. Well, gift him the ultimate tank with this seamless option. Breathable, lightweight and offering a slim fit, it's the sleeveless shirt he's always dreamed of.

FLYBIRD Adjustable Weight Bench WP129

A top-notch weight bench allows for comfort, sure, but also the versatility to knock out a bunch of different exercises. This adjustable option is just the one, ready for any kind of workout and also able to stow away with ease when it's time to move on to the next thing.

Men's Light Comfort Compression Over-The-Calf Socks

Admittedly, compression socks don't always look the best but we can't argue with their purpose. With these, you actually get a solid look plus all of the health benefits that come with the style. Here's to better circulation.

Big Bertha 40oz 2-in-1 Foam Roller Water Bottle

Water bottles can do more, just ask this model from MOBOT. A foam-rolled tested to withstand 350 pounds of pressure, it's also a hydration device with a slick straw-infused top. Meet you new gym sidekick.

Recovery Slides for Men Women

Recovery comes in smaller doses too, like these unisex slides. Great for airing out after an exhausting routine, they sooth the feet and take on stress in stride.

Fast and Free Men's Run Hat

Designed with the runner in mind, this running hat includes a built-in headband for sweat absorption and a flexible build. The bill keeps the glare at bay while the reflective details are nice for being seen when the workout happens before the sun comes out (or after it goes down).

TERREX Trail Running Wind Jacket

An exceptional gift for the trail runner or outdoorsman, this wind jacket is water repellent and folds into its own pocket. It'll cut through the breeze and keep rain away while offering a nice, streamlined fit.

Men's Metcon 9 Training Shoes

These workout sneakers are the ultimate shoes for your next WOD, offering a strong platform for heavy-weight moves like deadlifts and squats, and just enough flexibility to get through box jumps and a quick sprint, too.

AD7 Airdyne Bike

As with a lot of home gym equipment, you often get what you pay for. Case in point: This flagship exercise bike from Schwinn Fitness. The AD7 Airdyne stands out with a wind-resistance setup that offers a full-body cardio workout, and when seated, the extra-padded, oversized seat makes for a comfy ride.

Luka Duffel

This overachieving duffel is extremely lightweight and comes with nine pockets. Great for gym, work or travel, the bag has a separate compartment for shoes and sweaty gear. Plus, the padded aesthetic is incredibly on-trend.

City Sweat Jogger

These joggers are so comfortable you'll have to have them forcibly removed when it's finally time to give them a wash. The terry fabric is soft and stretchy and the tapered fit is sharp enough you could almost pull them off at a work meeting (especially if it's virtual). They're also available in 3 lengths, meaning you can choose one tailor-made for anyone in your life.

Cloudmonster

A great running shoe can be just as functional as it is stylish. Shocker, we know. Thanks to those hollow CloudTec capsules in the outsole, this pair is propulsive, with great response that can handle the abuse of the pavement. Looking badass is just the cherry on top.

Cast Iron Kettlebell with Enamel Finish, 25-Pound

A good kettlebell is accessible, with a great grip area and the durability to outlast even the most intense workout sessions. This one does that and more, 25-pounds of goodness that won't corrode and can be held easily with one or two hands.

Element Baselayer Leggings

You might've seen this brand plastered all over the internet, and for good reason. These leggings, which we found to be the perfect base layer, look and feel great for any running or strength training workout. The fabric maintains its stretch and soft integrity even after dozens of washes, so you can trust this gift will go the distance.

Metro IQ® Reformer

If there's a pilates lover in your life, this is the perfect gift. It's a smooth operator, with scores of workout options and the ability to stow neatly when not in use. Highly effective, the Reformer is made to increase strength, balance, agility and more. Plus, it's just plain fun to use.

Theragun mini

The smallest tool in the Theragun arsenal, the mini massage gun packs a serious massage in a slight frame. It offers three speeds, a trio of attachments, and the battery life is also killer, offering the same 150-minute capacity as full-sized models. Fitness and Commerce Editor Talene Appleton, NASM, tested this gun's portability and durability all summer by traveling around the country with it. Check out her full review here.

Uplifting Yoga Block Duo

Build a better yoga session with this block duo. It's a great tool for perfecting certain poses and increasing your flexibility and balance. They're soft to the touch but firm enough to withstand the weight and pressure of a strenuous yoga session.

6-Month Alo Moves Subscription

Gift the instruction without making them leave their house with this vast subscription. There's a class for every level of fitness, spanning the gamut from mindfulness to yoga. It's a gift that literally keeps on giving, at least from a mental and physical health standpoint.

Premium Large Exercise Mat

Set up your workout space right with this padded exercise mat, ideal for yoga, stretches, weight training, and anything else you can think of. It's massive compared to a standard yoga mat, meaning it's great for any home workout do-er, but especially those bigger guys who can never seem to fit all their limbs on a standard-size mat. We also love that it's truly grippy, unlike most yoga mats that turn into a slip-and-slide when sweat starts dripping.

Hypervolt Go 2

Recover efficiently with this clever device. While it looks like a hair dryer, the Go 2 tackles tightness and sore muscles with a hyper-percussion, extremely soothing massage.

Active Recovery Shoe

With a sporty build and maximum breathability, these recovery shoes from Kane are extraordinary. Think Crocs but built for the athlete, with a textured insole to activate pressure points and maximum ventilation. They're comfy, easy to throw on, and especially great for water adventures. We love these for runners who need to show their feet and legs a little TLC after training.

Core Hooded Runner

Part of a great workout involves feeling good during it. That's an easy thing to knock out with this exceptionally cozy hoodie from Alo Yoga. The jersey-like fit is sharp and ideal for moving in unison with the body.

Men's Flex Stride 5" Brief Running Shorts

Running is all the more enjoyable in a good pair of shorts. This option gives you a knitted interior for added support, a higher cut so as not to impeded those working legs and flex fabric that moves in harmony with the runner.

Original Portable Home Gym Resistance Bands

Think of the Gorilla Bow as a hybrid tool that combines the benefits of resistance bands with a bow-style bar, which allows for a lot more versatility than a resistance band alone. The unique bow design accommodates up to 300 pounds of resistance (just to start, you can get heavier models) that you can use to target just about every muscle group. The bow itself is made out of aircraft aluminum while the resistance bands are double-wall latex, resulting in a durable, lightweight, and portable build.

Under Desk Folding Treadmill

Getting your steps in is so in right now. But not everyone has the luxury of time to get out for a leisurely walk each day. This under-desk walking pad requires no assembly and tracks key metrics like elapsed time, distance covered, speed, and calories burned, ensuring your special someone stays on top of their fitness goals without missing a beat at work.

Read More: Best Under Desk Treadmills

Swift Short Sleeve 2.0 Mens Shirt

A true runner's shirt, this top wicks moisture like a champ and has reflective decals for added visibility. The saddle seam shoulder reduces chaffing and the range of motion is ideal for the active souls out there.

Cooling Towel

It's hot out there. And even when it's not—in an air-conditioned gym or during the colder months —everyone heats up while working out. These cooling towels offer instant satisfaction and can dial down the core thermometer, meaning no overheating and a quality refresh.

Read More: Best Cooling Towels

Men's MacroPillow Tab Running Sock

Ah, the sock, the oft-overlooked key to a great run. These running socks are built for the joggers of the world, offering great support and the layer you need between your feet and your favorite running shoes. They cushion and cradle in equal parts, making the run all the more comfortable.

Read More: Best Running Socks

OG Polarized Sunglasses

A polarized and sporty pair of shades for less than $30? Nope, it's not 1990, it's just a really good deal. We love these sunglasses, offering a snug fit and protecting from both scratches and saltwater.

Fast and Free Running Armband

Hands-free running is the only way to fly but it's nice to have your device on board. Enter the runner's sleeve, great for storing your smartphone so you can glide through the streets listening to your favorite playlist. This one from Lululemon is one of the most secure and comfortable we've ever tried. Best, it's reflective, so you'll be seen and therefore safer.

Clifton 9

Full of bounce and verve, these stylish runners from Hoka are great. There are scores of color choices, the design is award-winning, and your feet will love the company of unrivaled cushion and solid heel support. From pro ultrarunners to occasional joggers, this shoe is one of the most widely loved models on the market right now.

Read More: Best Hoka Running Shoes

ADV SKIN 12 Unisex Running Vest

This running vest for him or her caters to the long-distance type. Set up with a pair of hydration flasks, it allows the wearer to water up with ease while training for that substantial race. It's aerodynamic and slim, meaning it won't weight you down.

Wave Rower

Bring the aquatic rowing experience to your garage or home gym with the Wave Rower. You get water workouts conducted by pros and Olympians as well as Bluetooth connectivity and health tracking info. The machine stores some 4,000 workouts, covering everything from rowing to circuit training and yoga.

The Plunge

If it's good enough enough for Aaron Judge, it's good enough for just about anyone. “Finding an ice bath that comfortably fits me isn’t easy,” he says. This state-of-the-art tub cools and heats, spanning 37 degrees to 105 degrees and sets up in a mere 15 minutes. You can control the tub remotely with your smart phone and treat your body to some serious muscle recovery with every dip.

Read more: Best Ice Bath Tubs

HYDRATE Sticks

Everyone serious sweat deserves serious hydration to replenish the electrolytes and minerals your body needs to thrive. This hydration formula from GOODONYA tastes more like lemonade than a nutrition supplement, and it's made with only 1 gram of sugar per ready-to-go stick.

GEL-Contend® Walker 2

Did you know walking shoes need to be replaced every 300-500 miles? For most people, that means a new pair is needed every six to 12 months. Fortune favors the prepared, so why not gift the next walking shoes in your loved ones' rotation? This model from Asics is one of the best we've ever walked in, and it's also an all-time best-seller without our readers.

Read more: Best Walking Shoes

Precision Foam Roller

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly recovery gift than a massage gun, nothing beats a trusty foam roller. I mean, sure, recovery gear's gotten all fancy in recent years, but this humble little roller is as functional as it gets. We love that this one is just $40 and is compact enough for easy storage but large enough to use on larger muscle groups like the back and glutes.

Read More: Best Foam Rollers

Simple Training Sandbag

Sandbags are a FUNctional way to switch up workouts. And Go Ruck makes the toughest training sandbags ever built. Whether they're just starting their sandbag training journey or need to upgrade their home gym, these sandbags have two padded handles and come in multiple weights that open up a world of workout possibilities.

The Rest Time Fitness Timer

For those who follow strength training programs of any kind on their phone or tablet, queueing up a timer on the same device can be incredibly inconvenient. This little gadget is small enough to clip on your person, towel, or water bottle and can be programmed in 30-150 second intervals to track exercise or rest intervals.

Fitness Journal Hardcover

Gym rats and fitness newbies alike can all benefit from putting pen to paper to flesh out a new routine, track progress, or set goals. This journal offers prompts for all of the above, plus free pages for open ended journaling. Plus, it's under $10.

Smart Jump Rope

Plain old jump ropes are a thing of the past now that smart jump ropes have stepped onto the scene. This one is only $30 (and often on sale), and integrates with a free app where users can track each workout and monitor progress over time. Not only is it fun, but it's super lightweight and portable, making it great to travel with for cardio anywhere, anytime.

Read More: Best Weighted Jump Ropes

Boxing Training Gloves

We all need a healthy way to blow off steam and release physical stress, and boxing is the perfect solution. For anyone who goes to boxing classes on the regular, having an extra pair at home, in the car, or at the office can be the difference between making it to that class on time or not. Plus, boxing gloves yet sweaty, so they need to be replaced often.

Read More: Best Punching Bags

Men's UA Tech™ ½ Zip Long Sleeve

Cozy, good-looking, and reasonably-priced, this 1/2 zip is one of our favorite pieces of apparel Under Armour has ever made. It's versatile and comfortable enough to be worn alone or a second layer, making it ideal for outdoor activity in most seasons. It comes in two lengths, one for the taller guys in your life, and more colors than you could possibly imagine.

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