Chandler Plante's Wellness and Fitness Gift Guide
I'm a Health and Fitness Editor — Here Are the Best Products For a Healthy New Year
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When a new year rolls around, there's always so much motivation to make small adjustments to improve our health and fitness. Whether you're focused on fitness goals, carving out space for self-care, or just looking to feel like the best version of yourself, wellness products can get you into the right mindset.
As a health and fitness editor, I come across new wellness-related products often. I've tried everything from innovative smart watches to AI journals, and I've researched the best tactics and products for getting better sleep, working out, and relieving anxiety. I've even experimented with diagnostic testing, supplement patches, and matching activewear.
But which items are actually worth buying for your health and wellness? Ahead, I rounded up a few of my favorite products in the wellness space — from trendy exercise equipment to tools for mindfulness and self-care — all of which would also make perfect gifts. Read on to get all the wellness product inspiration . . . even if it's just for a little gift to yourself.
Best Yoga Mat
B, Halfmoon B, Mat Traveller ($88)
I can attest that this yoga mat has just the right amount of cushioning, plus grip to help you avoid sliding out of down dog. "I've never felt like I'm slipping around despite the wear, and I haven't felt like I need to order a new one," one PS editor wrote in her review of the B, Mat. "A good mat really does make a huge difference in the quality of your yoga practice."
Best Pilates Socks
BootayBag Off Duty Grip Pilates Socks ($17)
Every Pilates practitioner needs the right equipment and that includes an adorable pair of grippy socks. Not only are these socks functional — preventing slips and improving stability for barre or Pilates — they're also some of the cutest I've come across. You can shop different embroidered designs (BootayBag frequently drops new styles) and you can choose whether or not to add ruffles.
Best Headphones
Samsung Buds3 Pro ($200, originally $250)
As a former headphone purist, Samsung Buds3 Pro completely converted me. I appreciate the snug fit and different levels of noise cancelation, making it so that I'm totally immersed in my music. Plus, the buds can connect to the Samsung Health app on your smartphone, so that all your health data is connected and easily accessible — a game changer if you're wearing these at the gym or during your hot girl walks.
Best Hydration Packet
Gatorade Propel Powder, Kiwi Strawberry ($35)
As a person living with chronic illness, I've experienced the power of electrolytes firsthand. These Propel powders are a major game changer for athletes, frequent travelers, or anyone looking to stay hydrated — just mix the powder into a refillable water bottle and take it on the go (whether that's to the court or the office). This practical gift also tastes delicious, with zero sugar and plenty of fun flavors to choose from.
Best Belt Bag
Telena Belt Bag ($9)
Amazon's Telena belt bag is widely known to be a more affordable alternative to more expensive belt bag brands. It comes in a multitude of colorways (I personally love it in pink and black) and a variety of fabrics. If that wasn't enough, thousands of reviewers have given it 5-star ratings, raving about its storage space and lightweight feel. "I had originally purchased this as a gift for someone and decided not to give it to them. Lol," one shopper wrote. "The material thickness is good, it doesn't feel or look cheap, the zippers are sturdy. The straps adjust easily, but stay in place."
Best Sleep Mask
Therabody SleepMask ($110)
If you know someone who struggles with sleep (or maybe just needs a little extra R&R), this vibrating Therabody SleepMask could very well be their dream gift. Scientifically proven to improve sleep quality, this mask comes with three sleep-inducing vibration patterns. It also fully blocks out light, helping you catch some ZZZ's no matter where you are.
Best Ankle Weights
Bala Bangles 2-Piece Wrist and Ankle Weight Set ($55)
After speaking to several fitness experts for their top ankle weight recommendations, Bala Bangles emerged as the clear winner. The aesthetically-pleasing design gives these weights a minimalist look and the velcro makes them easy to secure. "It doesn't feel heavier on one side of the foot, or like it's going to slide off or undo," personal trainer Talia Brumbaugh said previously. These are perfect for fans of Pilates, home workouts, hot girl walks, or anyone focusing on their fitness goals.
Best Water Bottle
Owala 24-ounce FreeSip Water Bottle ($30)
You don't have to be a fitness enthusiast to appreciate a good emotional support water bottle. The Owala brand (as seen on celebrities like Hilary Duff and Chappell Roan) is my personal favorite, due to its leakproof lid and unique colorways. "Beyond its aesthetics, I fell in love with the dual-function straw," one PS editor wrote in a full Owala Bottle review. "What makes it so great is that you can either sip through the built-in straw (ideal for avoiding spills when it's full) or swig from the spout opening when you need a lot more water at once (perfect for those intense Sculpt classes)." This also makes Owala water bottles a versatile gift for many different people on your list, whether they're avid gym-goers or just looking to stay hydrated.
Best Journal
Intelligent Change: The Five Minute Journal ($30)
A five-minute journal is the perfect wellness product for those seeking more mindfulness and gratitude in their daily lives. It comes with the same quick prompts for the morning and night, so you never feel overwhelmed or stumped for something to write. The journal provides space to record any major lessons from the day, favorite moments, and daily affirmations. Plus — speaking from personal experience — once the year is up (or the journal is complete), you can look back on all your best moments and takeaways from the year prior. Not to mention, the minimalistic design and bright hues make it a beautiful gift to unwrap.
Best Activewear
Popflex Pirouette Skort ($60)
As seen in Taylor Swift's "I Can Do It With a Broken Heart" music video, this viral skort actually doubles as activewear, with a high-rise waistline and built-in shorts. I originally envisioned this skort on the pickleball court or in a dance studio, but I'd gift it to any friends (or Swifties) looking to channel their inner ballerina — it's just that cute. "The Popflex skort is fitted with built-in shorts, which provide total coverage beneath the skirt and ensure I don't have to worry about any awkward exposure while on a workout bike or even while running," one PS editor wrote in her review of the Popflex Pirouette Skort. "The high-waisted design looks extremely flattering (even on someone with wider hips), while the skort's interior side pockets add a layer of functionality."
Best Workout Equipment
The Stakt Weights ($108)
Anyone can upgrade their home gym with these chic weights from Stakt. Each hand weight comes with a two-pound base, which you can then adjust to four or six pounds, depending on your desired intensity. The Stakt weights come in a variety of pastel colorways, making them extra special. "To start, I love how aesthetically pleasing the Stakt Hand Weights are. It's hard to deny — they're, like, really pretty," a PS staff writer wrote in her Stakt Weights review. "I loved using the Stakt Weights for resistance training, high-intensity interval training sessions, and mobility work."
Chandler Plante (she/her) is an assistant health and fitness editor for PS. She has over four years of professional journalism experience, previously working as an editorial assistant for People magazine and contributing to Ladygunn, Millie, and Bustle Digital Group.
