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Shopping for athletes can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with fitness jargon like “tempo run” or “lat pulldown.” If your loved ones are devoted to their fitness routines—whether they’re new to Pilates, enthusiastic triathletes, or regular gym-goers—they’re likely to appreciate a gift that aligns with their wellness goals instead of more traditional gifts like a cookie tin (which, let’s be honest, may not be the best choice if they’re in a cutting phase).
As someone who embraces an active lifestyle, I’ve had my hands on a myriad of fitness gear and wellness products. I may not be vying for a marathon medal anytime soon, but my dedication to fitness—whether through boutique classes, running, or hitting the gym for strength training—puts me in a unique position to offer suggestions for those athletes on your holiday shopping list.
The Best Christmas Gifts for Athletes
From performance supplements to innovative recovery tools, here’s a list of the 25 best gifts for athletes that will not only brighten their holiday season but also support their fitness journeys, helping them achieve their personal records.
For the Athlete Who’s Just Starting Out
Lululemon Women’s Fast and Free Trail Running Vest
If your loved one has shown interest in outdoor activities, this Lululemon running vest is a thoughtful gift. It features ample storage for essentials like water bottles, snacks, and even a phone—plus the straps double as hair ties, a clever feature for those spontaneous adventures.
Everlast Durable Heavy Punching Bag Kit
Introduce them to the world of boxing with this comprehensive three-piece kit, including a heavy bag, gloves, and hand wraps. Channeling their inner Rocky has never been easier!
For the Athlete Who’s Obsessed With Supplements
BODi P90X Pre-Workout Supplement
Help them unleash their inner beast with this under-$40 pre-workout supplement, available in delicious flavors like watermelon and blue raspberry. Designed to enhance strength, energy, and focus, it’s a perfect addition to their routine.
For the Athlete Who’s Known to Skip Rest Days
Therabody Theragun Relief Massage Gun
Encourage a proper recovery routine with this top-notch massage gun, perfect for alleviating soreness and improving range of motion. It comes with various attachments suited for different muscle groups.
For the Athlete Who Deprioritizes Sleep
White Lotus Beauty Premium Acupressure Mat
Help them unwind with this acupressure mat set, designed to alleviate stress and muscle tension while enhancing relaxation. It’s a unique way to encourage rest and recovery.
About the Author
Stacia Datskovska is a senior commerce writer at WWD, also contributing to Rolling Stone, The Hollywood Reporter, and Billboard. Previously, she worked at Elle Decor as an assistant digital editor, covering all things luxury, culture, and lifestyle through a design lens. Her bylines over the past five years have appeared in USA Today, Baltimore Sun, Teen Vogue, Boston Globe, Food & Wine, and more. Datskovska graduated from NYU with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and international relations. She regularly reports on the best gifts to get anyone in your life—from the fitness freak to the hard-to-shop-for father.
