The cool thing about buying fitness-themed gifts? They keep on giving! Yup, your cuz will be happy when she unwraps her new skipping rope now, but just wait until she’s skipped her way to seriously, toned legs – she’ll be thrilled all over again. Plus, fit girls love getting fitnessy stuff, so you honestly can’t go wrong.
1/ Gym Gloves
A grudge purchase – who buys gym gloves when that cash could go towards a cute pair of leggings? – but so useful if you spend time hanging from a bar or lifting weights. These give you extra protection for the middle two fingers and ventilation to prevent sweating. Plus, we love that print.
Puma Performance At Gym Gloves, R399
2/ Arm Protectors
Useful for shading your arms from the sun and a chilly race-morning breeze without having to commit to sleeves. Every runner needs a pair – preferably a few in different colours to go with different outfits.
Falke Performance Arm Protectors, R225
3/ Arm Band Phone Pouch
Many phone pouches have velcro straps that dig into your arm or slip down annoyingly. This comfy arm band is a nifty alternative.
MovePretty ArmbandPhoneHolder, R90
4/ Gym Socks
Another major grudge buy, but proper fitness socks make such a difference! Moisture-wicking fabric wicks away sweat so your feet don’t get as stinky and reduces your risk of developing blisters.
Nike Performance Socks, R199 for 3
5/ Gym Bag
You can never have enough pockets on a gym bag – this one has compartments for water bottles and an easy-access pouch for your gym card and phone.
Nike Performance Backpack, R479
6/ Running Cap
Once you’ve run in a cap that’s light, cool and snug fitting without cutting into your head, you’ll never go back.
Puma Performance Running Cap, R269
7/ Running Belt
The easiest way to run hands-free, but still carry your phone, car keys, tissues and lip balm.
Civvio Single Pocket Solo Belt, R139
8/ Head Bands
The silicone lining on the inside of these bands is the secret to keeping stray hairs out of your eyes in sweaty Bikram or Grid classes.
Puma Performance AT Sports Bands, R249 for 3
9/ Boxy Mesh Training Top
Boxy shapes and mesh details are hot right now, plus they’re practical – the shape is easy to move in and the fabric keeps you cool.
Utopia Mesh Top, R199
10/ Sports Bra
This is one of those basics you might not buy for yourself, but it’s so comfy it will quickly become your go-to. Sizes go up to 38D.
Triumph Performance Triaction Sports Bra, R239
11/ Yoga Mat
Great for home practice, yes, but mostly for the peace of mind of never again wondering whose sweaty body last touched the mat you’re using.
Justsports 6mm Thick Foam Yoga Mat, R199
12/ Buff
They’re so versatile for runners and hikers – they can be a scarf, sweatband, sun protection and more. The original Buff is on the pricey side, but if you’re on a tight budget, this heady is similarly useful.
Vivolicious Performance Heady, R199
13/ Yoga Mat Bag
The devoted yogi in your life will love not having the hassle of wrestling her mat into its strap after class. Plus, this can take her towel and water bottle.
Billy The Dee Yoga Mat Bag, R399
14/ Resistance Band
The ultimate tool for home and holiday workouts, you can use it for full-body toning, rehab or supporting your weight in body-weight exercises like pull-ups. It can even sub for the gym circuit – check out trainer Inge Bezuidenhout‘s holiday workout in the December issue of Women’s Health.
JustStrong Bands, R149
15/ Water Bottle
Plastic bottles have had their moment. These days you want a stainless steel bottle that will keep your water cool and not tasting like plastic. Bonus: This one still has the sippy-cup mouthpiece that many other steel flasks don’t.
Lizzard Active 530ml Stainless Steel Flask, R249
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