The holidays are an ideal time to introduce a friend to fitness or to encourage a blossoming interest in the world of exercise.  These gifts are not only exciting to receive, but they're also incredibly practical, and things that you probably wish you had owned when you first started working out.

While you're showing your loved one the ropes, make their new health journey more seamless and easier than ever with products that help with every aspect of fitness, from fueling to recovery.  And maybe pick up some of it for yourself while you're at it, because who doesn't need a little more protein powder or an extra pair of compression socks?

1. Fitbit Flex 2 Fitness Wristband

   

   The first step is often just that:  a step.  By giving your newbie fitness pal a tracker, they'll be encouraged to keep doing what they're doing, to move more, and to be more conscious of their daily habits.  It's an awesome gift to welcome them into the world of health — and you can challenge them on the Fitbit app with steps each week!

   Fitbit Flex 2 Fitness Wristband ($100)

2. Nike Elite Cushioned No-Show Tab Running Socks

   

   When I was a newbie myself, I didn't realize how much an awesome sock could make a difference in a run.  These cushioned compression socks with a heel tab are a huge step up from an everyday sock, and a thoughtful gift that a beginner may not think to get for themselves.

   Nike Elite Cushioned No-Show Tab Running Socks ($16)

3. Vega One Nutritional Shake Protein Powder

   

   Vega is a high-quality, tasty, and very accessible product.  Not only is it nutritionally dense and delicious in even the most basic of shakes (you can literally mix it with water;  ideal for a newbie) — but it's also vegan, and you can get it in many grocery stores.  These single packs make serving sizes even simpler.

   Vega One Nutritional Shake Protein Powder ($34, originally $40)

4. GapFit Breathe Racerback Tank

   

   A basic, supersoft tank will be a staple in their new active wardrobe.  This beautiful yet simple style from GapFit is just as sturdy and stylish as it is inexpensive.

   Gap GapFit Breathe Racerback Tank ($23)

5. Living Proof Perfect Dair Day Dry Shampoo

   

   Something this beginner may not know just yet:  dry shampoo is a fitness fanatic's BFF.  This is a trusted brand, and small enough to toss into a gym bag.

   Living Proof Perfect Fair Day Dry Shampoo ($12)

6. adidas Rose Gold Double Logo Tee

   

   A sporty transitional tee is perfect for both the gym and everyday, and a great way to introduce a more active style into their wardrobe.

   adidas Rose Gold Double Logo Tee ($39)

7. ban.do Gym Bag

   

   Perhaps your friend or loved one needs a little extra ... motivation.  This bag will do just that.  Just be sure to make good on your deal and take them to pizza after your workout.

   ban.do Gym Bag ($28)

8. adidas Fighter 6 Pack Headband Set

   

   Cute headbands are a practical and thoughtful gift ... and you can never have too many!

   adidas Fighter 6 Pack Headband Set ($10, originally $12)

9. Yes to Coconut Face & Hand Cleansing Wipes

   

   Another perfect addition to their gym bag?  Cleansing wipes.  These are inexpensive and they smell amazing!

   Yes to Coconut Face & Hand Cleansing Wipes ($6)

10. A Studio Class Gift Card

    

    What's your favorite class?  Take your friend with you!  One of the best ways to introduce your friend to the life-changing world of health and fitness is by actually bringing them to class.  I've used this as a gift for the beginners in my life, and they've agreed that it's the gift that keeps on giving (and a totally memorable experience for you both).  Suggestion:  plan a brunch for a post-exercise celebration!

    SoulCycle Gift Card (Prices vary)

11. CamelBak Eddy

    

    We love this water bottle for so many reasons — and your friend will too!  The straw makes it super easy to grab a gulp of water in a fast cardio class, while the handle makes it easy to carry (and keeps it from rolling away if it falls over!).  It's also super lightweight, so it won't weigh down their new gym bag.

    CamelBak Eddy ($15)

12. Yeti Yoga the Pisces Yoga Mat

    

    What makes a first yoga class less intimidating and more fun?  A gorgeous yoga mat, duh!  But seriously, they'll love discovering their happy place with this uniquely beautiful, cheerful print.

    Yeti Yoga the Pisces Yoga Mat ($60)

13. C9 Neoprene Hand Weight

    

    We all start somewhere, and for many of us, it's with a light set of dumbbells to keep in our room to practice our biceps curls so we're not embarrassed in class ... or maybe that's just us?  Regardless, these will help make all those at-home workouts easier and allow your friend to build strength to take on even heavier weights!

    C9 Neoprene Hand Weight ($4)

14. Nike Free RN Flyknit

    

    These were the first "real" athletic shoes I owned, and were perfect for starting at very short distances — and I even wore them to studio classes before I got training shoes!  Your beginner fit friend likely won't be running long distances just yet, so these lightweight, supercomfy shoes are ideal.

    Nike Free RN Flyknit ($130)

15. Forever 21 Active Get Fit Jump Rope

    

    A lightweight piece of cardio equipment in pretty colors with an inspirational message?  What's not to love?  This works as an amazing stocking stuffer or as part of a cute starter pack, if you're into making those.

    Forever 21 Active Get Fit Jump Rope ($6)

16. Old Navy Go-Dry Compression Crops

    

    Before your friend invests in a pair of $100 leggings, introduce them to a stylish, sturdy, and inexpensive brand like Old Navy.  These supercute cropped leggings are flattering, sweat-wicking, and under 40 bucks.

    Old Navy Go-Dry Compression Crops ($30)

17. Dr. Teal's Epsom Salt Soaking Solution Relax & Relief

    

    Let's be real:  that first cardio class is going to leave them feeling pretty sore.  Do them a solid and teach them the wondrous ways of an epsom soak.

    Dr. Teal's Epsom Salt Soaking Solution Relax & Relief ($5)

18. PakRat Running Belt

    

    As a beginner runner, I have clear, vivid, haunting memories of an early run with a fanny pack.  It.  Was.  Awful.  Surefire way to avoid the dreaded bouncing and chafing, but still carry your essentials?  A waist pack like this one.  No bounce, comfortable fit, and ample storage.

    PakRat Running Belt ($30, originally $40)

19. Gaiam Compact Foam Roller

    

    A fitness newbie might not even know what foam rolling is — make sure you introduce them to this imperative piece of equipment in the early stages to prevent injury and pain that might otherwise sideline their burgeoning fitness career.

    Gaiam Compact Foam Roller ($20)