Gifts For Studio Fitness

If your best friend, sister, or girlfriend is constantly running from cardio boxing to ballet barre to "Best Butt Ever" to SoulCycle (and then to a class you've never even heard of like Speedplay or Rise Nation), then you've come to the right place;  we've got essential gifts for your very active, very trendy fitness lover.  From stylish kicks to necessary post-workout recovery, there's a perfect gift at every price point.

 

Ultracor Ultra High Lux Knockout Print Leggings

Your studio-loving friend will feel like a star in these supertight compression pants that hold everything in at all the right spots.

Ultracor Ultra High Lux Knockout Print Leggings ($185)

 

Perfect Fit Vanilla Protein Packets

She's going to need protein after class, and these convenient packets make it easier than ever to whip up a shake.

Perfect Fit Vanilla Protein Packets ($21, originally $26)

 

Under Armour Wishbone Open Back Top

This ultrachic cropped top pairs perfectly with the high-waisted leggings that are already in her wardrobe (en masse).

Under Armour Wishbone Open Back Top ($60)

 

Fitbit Charge 2

With intuitive workout tracking, in-depth heart rate and calorie burning data, and a beautiful rose gold and lavender aesthetic, this will be her new best friend in the studio (besides you, of course).

Fitbit Charge 2 ($160, originally $180)

 

A Studio Class Gift Card

Nothing makes her happier than a sweat session at her favorite boutique.  It makes an ideal gift, whether it's last minute, pre-planned, a stocking stuffer, or part of a larger gift set you're putting together.

SoulCycle Gift Card (Prices vary)

 

Lululemon Like Nothing 7/8 Tight

These lightweight, impossibly thin, supersmooth tights are ideal for a cardio class.  With a high waistline to hold everything in and welded seams for a chafe-free workout, these will be a studio staple.

Lululemon Like Nothing 7/8 Tight ($128)

 

Spiked bkr

So many studio girls love their bkr bottles — but this one has a little more edge!

Spiked bkr ($40)

 

Yuni Beauty Healthy Actives Gift Set

With cleansing wipes and muscle-soothing gels, this all-natural beauty set designed for an active woman is the perfect addition to her gym bag.

Yuni Beauty Healthy Actives Gift Set ($40, originally $66)

 

Outdoor Voices Athena Crop

Studio lovers will also love this high-necked sports bra from Outdoor Voices in beautiful colors and soft fabric.

Outdoor Voices Athena Crop ($50)

 

Title Classic Leather Super Bag Gloves

This is so she doesn't have to use those rental gloves (they never smell awesome) in her boutique cardio boxing class.

Title Classic Leather Super Bag Gloves ($30, originally $40)

 

Tracksmith Brighton Base Layer

This top is sleek, smooth, soft, and from a standout brand that'll make her feel unique and stylish from barre to bootcamp.

Tracksmith Brighton Base Layer ($85)

 

Nike Metcon 2 Training Shoe

Whether she's swinging kettlebells or fast on her feet in a booty conditioning class, these supportive and stable shoes will be perfect.

Nike Metcon 2 Training Shoe ($130)

 

Outdoor Voices Dipped Warmup Legging

A nice little mix-up to the staple high-waisted black leggings, with a fun double-dipped look.

Outdoor Voices Dipped Warmup Legging ($95)

 

Nike+ Apple Watch

Whether she's running to Flywheel or running on the treadmill at Speedplay, this sporty apple watch will track calories burned, average heart rate, and her pace and mileage, thanks to the Nike+ running interface.

Nike+ Apple Watch ($369)

 

Yes to Coconut Face & Hand Cleansing Wipes

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

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

 

Lou & Grey Form Stripe Streeeetch Crop Top

Modern yet subtle styling with a high-fashion aesthetic make Lou & Grey the perfect line for studio addicts.

Lou & Grey Form Stripe Streeeetch Crop Top ($50)

 

Aloha Collection Mid-Size Namaste Wet-Dry Bag

A stylish clutch or organizational bag is perfect to keep gym things organized when she changes from her metallic tote to her luxury duffle to her sporty overnight bag.

Aloha Collection Mid-Size Namaste Wet-Dry Bag ($34)

 

Goldsheep Rosé All Day Legging

No explanation necessary.

Goldsheep Rosé All Day Legging ($98)

 

Hydaway Collapsible Bottle

This collapsable bottle takes up basically zero space in her tote or gym bag and works for any type of studio class.

Hydaway Collapsible Bottle ($20)

 

Sol & Selene Flying High Gym Bag

The studio queen needs a bag that is as trendy as it is functional;  this Sol & Selene number fits the bill.

Sol & Selene Flying High Gym Bag ($110)

 

Lululemon Free To Be Tranquil Bra

Strappy, sexy, and supportive:  just what she needs for hot yoga ... or AcroYoga ... or aerial yoga ... or whatever yoga she's doing this week.

Lululemon Free To Be Tranquil Bra ($52)

 

York The Henry Shoe

Let's just say your fitness-loving friend doesn't like to wear what everyone else is wearing.  In that case, these York sneakers will be her new favorite shoes.  This up-and-coming brand has an ultrastylish look with a clean, minimalistic, and low-profile aesthetic.

York The Henry Shoe ($110)

 

Alo Yoga Moto High-Waist Sport Leggings

From the Megaformer to the rowing machine to ... brunch.  And possibly to cocktails at night.  These leggings are so stylish, they'll blend into her everyday wardrobe (and she'll want them in every color!).

Alo Yoga Moto High-Waist Sport Leggings ($114)

 

ThirdLove Seamless Thong 3-Pack

We were told these are the "perfect Pilates panties" and it's true — they didn't disappoint.  Give your Pilates partner a three-pack for her weekly classes.

ThirdLove Seamless Thong 3-Pack ($30)

 

MPG Zine Cropped Reversible Jacquard Sweatshirt

The to-and-from look is just as crucial as the in-the-studio look;  this supercute sweatshirt will help.

MPG Zine Cropped Reversible Jacquard Sweatshirt ($45, originally $64)

 

Kayla Itsines Foam Roller

With all those classes, she needs a reminder to foam roll more.  In the form of her own foam roller.  As a gift.  From you.

Kayla Itsines Foam Roller ($29)

 

Adidas Performer High-Rise Tights

With a high-waist, a loud print, and compression fit, this style will be in her rotation for a long time.

Adidas Performer High-Rise Tights ($60)

 

Old Navy Go-Dry Cool Herringbone Compression Jacket

This fitted, slimming jacket will be perfect for throwing on over a crop top or sports bra as she heads to class.

Old Navy Go-Dry Cool Herringbone Compression Jacket ($40)

 

Alo Yoga Aria Lace Sports Bra

Mix up the sports bra collection with extra style and lace detailing that has a little extra edge.

Alo Yoga Aria Lace Sports Bra ($58)

 

S'well White Marble 25-oz. Reusable Bottle

A friendly reminder to hydrate — and to do it in style.  This stainless steel variety keeps water extra cold, even in hot Pilates or a sweaty SoulCycle class.

S'well White Marble 25-oz. Reusable Bottle ($45)

 

ToeSox Bellarina Full Toe Gripper Socks

For ballet, barre, Megaformer, yogalates, or whatever she has on the schedule today, a new pair of studio socks are always appreciated.

ToeSox Bellarina Full Toe Gripper Socks ($18)

 

MPG Printed Pull-On Leggings

Whether they're for HIIT class or dance class, these printed leggings bring a lot of personality and fun to the studio floor.

MPG Printed Pull-On Leggings ($74)

 

APL TechLoom Pro Metallic Melange Knit Performance Sneaker

Your studio star BFF will feel extra glam in these white and gold APLs.

APL TechLoom Pro Metallic Melange Knit Performance Sneaker ($160)

 

Old Navy Go-Dry Cool Mid-Rise Yoga Leggings

With bold and modern colorblocking, these leggings are stylish for her, affordable for you.  It's a surefire way to win the holidays.

Old Navy Go-Dry Cool Mid-Rise Yoga Leggings for Women ($23)

Posted by Richard J. Wood on Tuesday 13 December 2016
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Bodyweight Butt Workout

If you love a good booty burn, you're going to be all over this 10-minute butt workout.  You better get some quarters ready because your butt is going to be so fricking firm!

 

The Moves:

Squat thrust
Squat with overhead reach
Alternating forward lunge (one on each side counts as one rep)
Sumo squat jump

 

The Workout:

Set the timer for 10 minutes and begin this up-ladder-style workout by doing three reps of each exercise, then six reps, then nine reps, then 12 reps, and so on until the 10 minutes are up.


Squat Thrust

  • Begin standing with the feet hip-distance apart.
  • Lower into a crouching squat with your hands on the floor.
  • Keeping the abs engaged, jump your feet back so you're in plank position.
  • Keeping the arms straight, jump your feet forward behind the hands.
  • Stand up to complete one rep.


Squat With Overhead Reach

  • Begin with your feet slightly wider than hip's width apart and toes pointed slightly outward.  Raise your arms up until your upper arms are even with your ears.  If this is too difficult, rest your hands on your hips.
  • Keeping weight in your heels, sit back into a deep squat.  Make sure your knees do not go beyond your toes or roll in or out of alignment.  Keep your abs engaged as you squat.
  • Deepen your abdominal engagement as you press through your heels to return to standing, completing one rep.


Alternating Forward Lunge

  • Stand tall with your feet hip's width distance apart.  Bend the elbows at your sides or rest your hands on the hips.
  • Step forward with the right foot, lowering your hips until both knees are bent at about a 90-degree angle.  Keep the front knee directly above the ankle, and lower the left knee to just above the floor.
  • Keep the weight in your heels as you push back to the starting position.
  • Repeat stepping with the left foot this time, completing one rep.


Sumo Squat Jump

  • Stand in a wide sumo squat position with your feet slightly turned out, arms resting on your hips.
  • Jump up explosively, keeping your core engaged.
  • Land with control, lowering your body back into the wide sumo squat position to complete one rep.
Posted by Richard J. Wood on Tuesday 13 December 2016
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Motivational Running Quotes

Sometimes getting out the door to go for a run is tough.  No matter how much you love running, lacing up can be daunting at times.  Motivate yourself with these inspirational quotes that remind you of the end results: that runner's high and feeling of accomplishment.  Now get out there and crush those miles!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Posted by Richard J. Wood on Monday 12 December 2016
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Victoria's Secret Model Pressure to Work Out

Can you imagine being a Victoria's Secret model?  Sure, it seems insanely glamorous — jetting off to Paris to walk the runway alongside The Weeknd, training in exclusive NYC gyms with the hottest trainers, and, of course, getting to wear wings and heels all dolled up on the runway.

But then there's the idea of there being so much pressure to look ultra-hot at all times, right?  The pressure to work out constantly, to eat healthier, and skip the pizza.

So when we talked to Rachel Hilbert, the face of Victoria's Secret Pink and runway model for the upcoming VS Fashion Show in Paris, we wanted to get her insight on this.  Her response?  "There's not any extra pressure there."

"It's not the job that made me work out," she told us.  "I've always been an active person."  And while she mentioned she's more encouraged to be healthy thanks to her job, she really appreciates it, too.  "It's a little bit more motivation when your job is to also look healthy and all of that," she said.  "I love [working out for the job] because I'm definitely a lot more healthy than I would be otherwise."

When we asked about preparing for the upcoming Paris show, she said "I don't really feel pressure;  I do my workouts, I do what I gotta do, I eat clean, and that's it.  There's not any extra pressure there.  I put pressure on myself because I like to get my workouts right [laughs]."

Hilbert also told us she loves what fitness does not only for her body, but for her mind as well.  The 21-year-old dancer and skier-turned-model said, "Working out makes me feel good;  it makes me less anxious, and is a stress reliever for me.  You don't have to do certain things to look a certain way, it's just a healthy lifestyle you have to adapt to."

Hilbert's words paint a different picture of what the modelling world is like, given that models Erin Heatherton and Alessandra Ambrosio have recently spoken out about feeling pressure and stress from their modelling careers and the training that comes with it.

Posted by Richard J. Wood on Monday 12 December 2016
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Fitness and Health Gifts Under $25

If you have a fit friend with a special day coming up, we're here to help you score the perfect gift — without breaking the bank.  We've rounded up 25 gifts, with selections for the runner, yogi, cyclist, and overall fitness freak.  Your wallet will appreciate that all these finds are under $25.

 

 

1. 9-oz. S'well Water Bottle

Ever since we found this petite jewel-toned water bottle ($25) from S'well, we've been wanting one for ourselves.  Almost anyone in your life will love toting around this bottle.

 

2. Oh My Quads!

Who says strength training is just for dudes?  We love this "Oh My Quad" tank ($24).  Give one to your workout buddy, or gift yourself with one!

 

3. Spiral Vegetable Spiralizer

Gluten-free, Paleo, and low-carb healthy eaters will flip for this Procizion Vegetable Spiral Slicer ($17, originally $20) that will help them create veggie noodles at home in just a few minutes.

 

4. The Grid Mini

For your jet-setting pal, give this suitcase-ready Grid Mini ($25).  Small enough to fit in their bag, the foam roller can relieve any travel-related aches as soon as they step off the plane.

 

5. Smartwool Ski Socks

A basic necessity for the skier or rider in your life.  They'll always appreciate a new pair of these Smartwool PhD Ski Socks ($24).  They're made with strategically placed mesh panels to allow for ventilation and moisture management to keep tootsies dry and comfy.

 

6. Motivational Bracelet

A little motivation goes a long way, and this handmade "stronger than yesterday" cuff bracelet ($15) is sure to get your fitness fanatic friend's fire going.  It's made of aluminum alloy, while each bracelet is uniquely stamped.  They're sure to appreciate looking down and getting the push they need on those days they'd rather just chill on the couch.

 

7. Tone It Up Resistance Bands

Every fit fan needs a set of resistance bands at home.  The pretty colors of the Tone It Up Resistance Bands ($18) will make workouts even more fun (that's how it works, right?) with one light resistance and one heavy resistance band.

 

8. Fitlosophy "Goal Getter" Fitspiration Journal

Your fit friend is making plans and setting goals year round.  This thoughtful Fitlosophy "Goal Getter" Fitspiration Journal ($17) will help them organize thoughts and get after their dreams.

 

9. Electra Bike Bells

Whatever your biking pals are into, Electra has an artsy bike bell ($16) to suit their fancy — from swirly blue hues to candy-pink heart prints.  These classic "ding-dong"-style bells are perfect for any urban cyclist and can add style to the most fashionable fixie!

 

10. Old Navy Go-Dry Compression Crops

Old Navy really delivered with these supercute Old Navy Go-Dry Compression Crops ($30).  The leggings are flattering, sweat-wicking, and under 40 bucks.  You might want to pick up a pair for yourself, too!

 

11. Philosophie Protein Powder

While you might think it's a little weird to gift someone with protein powder, the fit fanatic in your life is going to love you for it.  Up the ante with Philosophie plant-based protein powders ($15 per bag).  Besides containing more protein per serving than an egg and more iron than a steak, they are also full of antioxidants and much-needed nutrients.  Perfect for the next amazing smoothie!

 

12. Prepara Tabletop Oil Mister

Calories can easily add up, which is why these Tabletop Oil Misters ($15) are great.  Instead of dousing a salad in oil, lightly spray for a thin, even coating of dressing.  Also great for cooking, grilling, and baking.

 

13. Style Edit Invisible Dry Shampoo

No matter their hair color, Style Edit Invisible Dry Shampoo ($12, originally $18) will keep tresses fresher than ever in between constant sweat sessions.

 

14. Aqua Sphere Kaiman Goggles

No swimmer can have too many goggles, and these Kaiman goggles ($20, originally $22) are designed for a smaller fit.  Perfect for women with petite heads and smaller eye sockets, these black goggles with smoky lenses are sleek and easily adjustable, and they offer UVA/UVB protection for open-water and outdoor swims.

 

15. Adidas Fighter 6 Pack Headband Set

Cute headbands are a practical and thoughtful gift ... and you can never have too many!  You'll want the Adidas Fighter 6 Pack Headband Set ($10, originally $12) for just about everyone on your list.

 

16. Skullcandy Chops

Music is a must during a high-intensity workout, but those earbuds don't always cut it.  These Skullcandy Chops Bud ($20) are a high-quality pick that stay put and don't come with an exorbitant price tag.  It also doesn't hurt that these headphones come in a ton of bright and fun colors like this hot-pink offering.

 

17. Klean Kanteen Canisters

Klean Kanteen isn't just for your water!  The brand also makes stainless steel food canisters — eight ounces ($18) or 16 ounces ($22).  BPA-free, eco-friendly, leakproof, airtight, and shatterproof, they're perfect for anyone's snacking needs, from dry foods like trail mix to wet foods like yogurt.

 

18. Manduka Sling

If your yoga-loving friend is a minimalist, she or he will love this simple Manduka The Commuter Sling ($16).  It fits any-size yoga mat, and not only does this sling offer an easy way to do it, but it also doubles as a strap you can use during the practice.  The padded shoulder strap makes it super comfy, and aside from the gray shown, it also comes in other earthy hues.

 

19. GapFit Heathered Racerback Tank

Go ahead — layer up!  These breathable GapFit Heathered Racer Camis ($25) dry fast and fit close to her body — just the thing to throw on underneath a cozy running jacket or for an indoor cycling class.  No matter what her workout, she'll appreciate the versatility of these tanks.

 

20. Believe Journal

Anyone who's committing to run a race will benefit from this Believe Journal ($19) designed by pro athletes Lauren Fleshman and Ro McGettigan.  It will help hold them accountable and keep them motivated!

 

21. Oster Blend-N-Go MyBlend Blender

In the ultimate convenience move, Oster created the Oster Blend-N-Go MyBlend Blender ($25) that blends directly into your takeaway bottle.  Your fitness-lover's favorite morning shakes and smoothies will be easier than ever to make and take.  At only $25, with multiple color options, you're about to win the holiday season.

 

22. Mind Over Matter Necklace

Any serious runners in your life would appreciate receiving this Mind Over Matter Necklace ($21) for a holiday gift or as a memento of a tough race.

 

23. Bodum Tea For One

An easy method for brewing loose tea is certainly a gift that keeps on giving.  The Tea For One set ($18) from Bodum is an elegant double-wall glass mug with an easily removed strainer.  The lid keeps the tea warm while brewing and doubles as a trivet.  Include a tin of green tea, and you're golden!

 

24. Swiftwick Compression Socks

An active person will love receiving a pair of Swiftwick Performance Compression Socks ($25).  Why?  The faster they can recover, the faster they'll be back at it again!

 

25. Stay Strong Poster

Give your friend a dose of strength daily with a constant reminder in their home or office.  This fun Stay Strong Poster ($10) will help motivate them year round.

Posted by Richard J. Wood on Monday 12 December 2016
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