23 Products For Anyone New To Exercise

Gear so good you'll *want* to workout.

If you're anything like me, exercise has taken a while *cough* YEARS *cough* to make its way into your daily regimen.

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Here are a few things to make this new part of your life a little easier and maybe even — dare I say — fun!

1. A pair of Saucony Cohesion running sneakers that feel like walking on clouds. Boasting a supportive arch and neutral colors, these sneakers are a new staple in my wardrobe.

Taylor Steele/BuzzFeed

I've had these sneakers for about a month and can't believe I was walking around wearing anything else. I can tell the cushioning in these bad boys absorbs impact and reduces pressure because I am very prone to shin splints, but have yet to experience that while sporting these on my daily half-hour power-walks.

Get them on sale from Saucony for $39.99 (originally $60; available in regular and wide width in sizes 5-12; available in three colors)

2. A two-sided sports bra to match your mood *and* your workout intensity.

Macy's

This bra keeps me comfortably strapped in. It can be difficult to forget you're wearing a sports bra; tight bands, loose elastic straps, unforgiving padding. But this Calvin Klein sports bra checks all the right boxes, plus it's reversible.

They're also cute enough to wear as a crop top!

Promising review: "I am so happy to have purchased this sports bra. I am 5-foot-8 and have a hard time finding sports bras that do not cut into my trapezoid area. This item is not only comfortable but it is reversible, comes in a variety of colors, and is priced very competitively. I know now that I don't have to be uncomfortable to get the support needed for my workouts and walks. Yea! Calvin Klein." —Macy's Customer

Get it on sale from Macy's for $24.99 (originally $39.50; available in three colors and in sizes XS-L).

3. A pull-up bar that fits perfectly in your doorway for the occasional (or heavily regimented) set of chin-ups on your way to the kitchen!

Amazon

My roommate has a pull-up bar installed in our hallway. It fits the bill for unobtrusive and sturdy. The foam grips help ensure comfort and proper positioning during your workout.

Promising review: "This was very easy to put together. It's very solid and sturdy. It's also easy to take down and put back up which I'm not doing. I've got it in a place that I pass by often so I'll stop and use it. I haven't done any upper body work or have gone to a gym in a very long time. My exercise has been cycling for many years. I didn't think I'd ever get off the ground but little by little it's happening." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $65.99.

4. A NutriBullet blender to easily make the smoothies we've been reading about on What's A Push-Up Dot Com. It has no problems crushing ice, incorporating peanut butter, or smoothing out fine seeds.

Bed Bath & Beyond

Promising review: "Love NutriBullet products! Purchased this as a replacement to my original NutriBullet which I had for five years. Super easy to use and quickly blends everything to a smooth consistency. I primarily use to make my healthy shakes in the morning, tossing in whatever fruits and veggies I have available. Blends everything beautifully including tougher items like chia seeds, oats and kale. Would highly recommend!" —Bed Bath & Beyond Customer

Get it from Bed Bath & Beyond for $63.99.

5. A pack of exercise sliders for a low-impact but effective addition to your core and abdominal workouts.

Amazon

Promising review: "These have been great for toning up my core. Very easy to follow the enclosed exercises, and it’s great that they are portable. These are also easy on my joints and fun to use." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $14.90+ (available in three colors)

6. A Klean Kanteen water bottle that'll help keep you hydrated in style. Made from stainless-steel to keep your beverages cold, this water bottle comes equipped with a sports cap, so you can take it anywhere.

REI

Promising review: "I've had my Klean Kanteen for about six and a half years now, and it's still the perfect water bottle. With the loop cap it never leaks, the stainless-steel never imparts any flavors at all, washing it is simple with the wide mouth. Wear and tear has been minimal, even though I'm always bringing it to the gym. You might as well just buy one of these and never have to worry about a water bottle ever again. These folks have perfected the water bottle, plain and simple. It does its job flawlessly. No gimmicks, no empty promises. Best buy you could imagine." —REI Customer

Get it from REI for $19.95 (available in five colors).

7. Waterproof headphones to withstand rain or sweat! These wireless headphones provide up to 24 hours of charge, so you don't have to worry about losing access to your Pump Up playlist on your first run!

Amazon

Promising review: "I could not be more pleased with these earbuds. I bought them primarily for use while running, and they have been fantastic. They fit comfortably, play well with sunglasses, stay in place, and are not bothered by a little sweat.

The sound quality is excellent, with plenty of bass, and the tip design does an excellent job of minimizing outside noise. Between podcasts, music, and phone calls, I find that I end up wearing them most of the day. Easily my favorite purchase of 2020." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $149.99.

8. The Nike Training Club app – it'll help you figure out the right workout for you based on your goals, your equipment, and time commitment.

Nike/Kayla Suazo

BuzzFeed Shopping writer Kayla swears by this app:

"A while ago my friend recommended the Nike Training Club app as it customizes a workout schedule to fit your lifestyle. I was immediately impressed when it asked me what equipment I had access to, where I like to workout, how often I want to exercise per week, and if I want to include runs in my program. Well, I *do* have a set of dumbbells (somehow??), I am currently too scared to go to the gym and much less pay for a membership, and I am okay with the idea of having a weekly run so I checked off those preferences and boom. I had a beginner workout plan, all of which I can do in my living room.

I’ve been doing it for four weeks now, and I honestly can’t believe I’ve stuck with something that long. I’ve found that immensely helpful because it’s taught me proper form and stretches that I knew nothing about before — which in hindsight, I think is why I was so put off with exercising. I didn’t know how to do it. It’s definitely given me confidence to workout at my own pace, and get rid of this idea that I need to be in a race to get fit. Above all, it’s FREE, and I can’t help but think that’s the best part. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯" —Kayla Suazo

Check out the rest of Kayla's review here (it's #8).

Get it from the Apple Store or Google Play for free.

9. A pair of compression leggings that stretch to give a skin-tight feel and wick sweat away.

Under Armour

Promising review: "These are my go-to tights for running (I have four pair of this version and two pair of the ColdGear technology of the same tight). They do not sag or slide down AT ALL while running—even my oldest pair that has been washed probably close to 100 times. I have many pairs of tights from several of the big athletic-wear brands, including ca. Five that are marketed as specifically for running, and none of them stay put like this model from Under Armour, even those that were three times the price. If you have a problem with tights slipping down when you run, these tights are for you." —Under Armour Customer

Get it from Under Armour for $45 (available in three colors and three lengths in sizes XS-XXL).

10. These push-up bars to help you perfect your push-up stance and explore new positions while providing a sturdy base and strain-free handles, so you don't ~feel the burn~ where you shouldn't!

Amazon

Promising review: "These push-up stands are perfect for me. I cannot bend my hands into the normal push-up position without a lot of pain, even doing modified push-ups. I've only had these stands for about a week, and they have made a big difference. I'm now on my way to doing "real" push-ups, and have made these part of my workouts." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $24.97.

11. Clean Slate — a cookbook to help you step up your antioxidant game! Featuring recipes that guide your understanding of whole grains to tons of gluten-free and vegan recipes, you'll want this book in your corner as you start your workout journey.

Clarkson Potter

"I am embarrassed to admit this, but the minute I saw its 24 beautifully photographed smoothie recipes, the Clean Slate cookbook took up permanent residence in my kitchen. I am well beyond the point where I should need recipes to make smoothies. But now the book's strawberry, grapefruit, and ginger smoothie is one of my new go-to snacks, and I will not apologize.

Clean Slate, released in December by the editors of Martha Stewart Living, has merits that go beyond its small chapter on smoothies. There's an appealing section of breakfasts that emphasize whole grains and lean protein, another chapter for veggie-packed lunches, and delicious dinners that use meat sparingly. My friend and colleague Katie Notopoulos swears by the cauliflower soup recipe. I love some of the book's more inventive flavor combinations, like roasted sweet peppers with oranges, carrots, and hazelnuts. And my roommate/boyfriend loves the recipe for wild salmon, asparagus, and shiitakes cooked in parchment.

It's not a perfect cookbook: Advanced cooks won't be super-inspired, and the 'action plans' — three-day and 21-day eating schedules that tell you exactly which recipes to try — don't take leftovers into account. But it's otherwise full of tons of helpful and practical information about how to eat a balanced, healthy diet." —Emily Fleischaker

Read the rest of Emily's review here (it's #9).

Get it from Barnes & Noble for $26 (also available as a NOOK Book).

12. A whirly board if achieving and maintaining balance is your fitness goal.

Whitney Jefferson/BuzzFeed

BuzzFeed editor Whitney loves this thing:

"You’re probably thinking, What the heck is a Whirly Board? Well, I’ll tell you: It’s a balance board that rotates 360 degrees and looks a lot like a skateboard. The Whirly Board promises to develop your balance in all directions, build coordination, engage your core, and be fun to play with.

It’s been a game-changer in terms of my recovery from a broken ankle — you can only do the same leg lifts and exercises with elastic bands so many times before the boredom sinks in (sorry to my physical therapist if she happens to be reading this!). I started by just standing on the board and trying to keep it balanced (which is challenging already) and eventually found that using it to stretch was a huge help in reducing any lingering pain resulting from my injury." —Whitney Jefferson

Check out the rest of Whitney's review here (it's #8).

Get it from Amazon for $119.95+ (available in three colors).

13. A chocolatey organic protein powder that's vegan, gluten and lactose free, and above all really tasty.

amazon.com

Promising review: "I think this protein powder is a great part of a my fitness routine. I feel full, it tastes good (especially mixed with unsweetened cashew milk), and it's a no-brainer breakfast for me to drink at work. It's especially great the morning after a tough workout or the night before. I love that I have at least one meal that's super healthy, full of plant-based protein, vitamins, etc. I really hope they don't stop making this!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $26.99 (available as travel packs and available in vanilla)

14. A nonslip yoga mat to practice your headstands or stretch your quads. Its dual-layer, eco-friendly design will make you feel good in more ways than one.

amazon.com

Promising review: "I love this mat. The thick padding on our wood flooring gives my body the support it needs. It's not hard to pivot your feet or slide your hands from one pose to the next. In fact, it makes it easier to keep you in place.

This mat is easy to wipe down and roll up, doesn't take up space, and it's lightweight. I love that I can take it anywhere because it has straps to hold it together. Plus the two-tone color is nice; just flip to any side you're in the mood for.

It's a great buy for yourself and makes the perfect gift for anyone doing beginners or advance Yoga." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (available in three colors).

15. Resistance loop bands for added resistance to a variety of exercises. Coming in five different resistance strength levels (x-light, light, medium, heavy and x-heavy), these multi-functional bands are great for anyone testing their strength and flexibility.

amazon.com, Amazon

Promising review: "These resistance loops were exactly what I was looking for. I wanted to amp up my workouts at home, including stretches that strengthen my neck and shoulders after having had surgery on them both over the last two years. These bands were very high quality and come in a cute little bag that can be easily slipped into my gym bag. Or, I can just bring one or two in my pocket. I have folded one up and put it in my sports bra to be completely honest! The varying weights are apparent in the thickness of the bands, and they are clearly marked both by printed strength and the color differences. The packet they came in has also been helpful in that it provides the strengths and correlating estimated pounds, so I hung onto that as a reference. I would highly recommend these bands as they have already helped me build muscle and tone my abs, glutes and legs. There are so many exercises that can be done with these handy little bands. And for such an inexpensive price? Perfect." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $17.85 (available in three colors).

16. A water-resistant Fitbit so you can track your heart rate, the number of calories you've burned, and your sleep patterns. Stay on top of your fitness goals!

Target

Promising review: "Love my Inspire Fitbit. It's my first time having any sort of fitness tracker. It was easy to set up and to personalize. Love that it tracks my heart rate and gives me a sleep score, overall health score, tracks how much I drink and reminds me to get up from my desk to walk. You have to download the app on your phone to view all of the statistics. Love it!!" —Target Customer

Get it from Target for $99.95 (available in three colors).

17. A lightweight jump rope for those blazing fast double-unders you've been practicing! This adjustable steel cable rope is also long-lasting, so be sure to make this a staple in your exercise gear.

amazon.com

Promising review: "I was not initially planning on leaving a review for a jump rope. After all a rope is a rope right? Well after using my WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope, I had to mention a few things. Firstly, the extra accessories provided are really great. Love the little carry case. Sizing my rope was really easy and took no more than a minute. Compared to my previous rope, this is really light. I had to get accustomed to the weight or lack thereof. After about 10-15 mins of use, I started to appreciate it. The rope is also wickedly fast. I was able to go longer without stopping since my arms and shoulders were not tired from the weighted handle rope I was accustomed to. I can't wait to use it again. Absolutely love it! Who would've thought a jump rope could stir such emotions? Go figure." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $19.98 (available in seven colors).

18. An under-the-desk elliptical to get those steps in while you work! If going for a run is a little too daunting right now, this Cubii home elliptical is a great place to start. It also comes with a downloadable app that tracks your growth!

amazon.com

Promising review: "The Cubii is GREAT! It's easy to put together, easy to use (and pair with the free Cubii app), and is very quiet. I've tried other under-the-desk exercise equipment that require more leg height, but the Cubii requires very little under-the-desk height, and there's a low risk of banging your knees against the desk. It feels sturdy and well-built. It feels like a natural, less cumbersome movement than other under-desk exercisers, and it's easy to use (not distracting) while working. Next thing you know, you've easily logged 10,000 steps! You'll certainly feel it in your leg muscles once you get up and walk around - Cubii works!" —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $349 (available in two colors).

19. A weighted toning ball, so you can workout while you cook, watch TV, or do laundry, you multi-tasking master! And if dumbbells feel like to daunting a first step towards your gym goals, these make great substitutes!

amazon.com

Promising review: "A little larger than I expected for a 2 lb toning ball, but it matches the description perfectly. I like to use it by lifting it behind my head when I’m listening to a conference call. And 2 lbs is perfect for improving my posture and releasing tension. I may order a second for use while doing Pilates." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $10.24+ (available in six weights and colors)

20. A trigger point foam roller that can target specific muscles for a post-workout massage to help with blood circulation and muscle tightness.

REI

Promising review: "I've been getting into much better shape recently and pushing myself by cross-training between trail running, yoga, circus arts, and weightlifting. I'm continuously finding this roller is much more effective than the softer foam ones, yet not as painful as the bumpy plastic ones, and I love the ability to use the different sections for targeted pressure or not. My favorite thing about it is that because it's hollow, I take it with me traveling and can pack things inside of it. Flying long distances is a lot more comfortable when I can roll out the aches and pains after landing! Love this, and I am so glad I got this one versus a simple foam one." —REI Customer

Get it from REI for $34.95 (available in two colors)

21. A sturdy ab wheel for an ab and core workout you can take with you! This comes with an exercise guide, so you don't have to reinvent the ~wheel~ when it comes to fitness.

Amazon

Promising review: "I bought this product to tone my upper half. It's very lightweight, easy to use, and simple to put together. All in all I really like it. The knee pad is perfect. I put it right on the carpet for extra protection. You can feel the ab wheel working immediately. I can't wait to see results." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $22.99.

22. A pair of 10-pound ankle weights to add some intensity to your cardio! Increase your strength, stamina, and balance with these adjustable weights.

Amazon

Promising review: "These are the most incredible ankle weights I have ever worn, and I will at this point stay with these as I’m now a big fan of the quality. I’ve ordered three other sets from other companies that I did not favor. With these, the weights are incredibly easy to insert/remove for different workouts or to switch between wrists and ankles. The velcro stays very well and is easy to pull apart. They are comfortable, and I’m able to quickly remove when switching leg workouts. Can’t really say enough about how pleased I am with this product, and I feel you will be happy with them as well." —Amazon Customer

Get a pair from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in three colors).

23. A microfiber towel that is soft, lightweight, and dries fast. Take this on your hikes, walks, or just keep it near your gym equipment for a quick wipe-down post-workout.

Sea to Summit

Promising review: "Excellent towel for pool workouts! I'm 5-foot-5 and the XL is long and wide enough to discreetly circle my size 12 body and cover up to my knees. Super absorbent and can still soak up my wet hair after drying off my body. Fast-drying and always ready for the next workout! Yes, it's expensive... but TOTALLY worth it!" —L.L. Bean Customer

Get it from L.L. Bean for $24.95+ (available in three sizes and three colors).

Your journey to your fitness goals awaits you!

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