23 Fitness Gadgets That Actually Work Gifts

When it comes to fitness gadgets and gizmos for running, I admit to being a sucker for them all. I want to test each little click, clack and whiz to find out IF the running technology really produces results.

From a minimalist in all other areas of my life this is absolutely amusing to my husband.

But at a great benefit to you fellow athletes!

It means that I quickly dump the losers and keep only the things that work to share with you, saving you time and money! Because as my IG followers know, I’m too honest for my own good sometimes, but at least I know I’m never going to feel bad if you buy something I recommend.

The integration of technology into running isn’t just about keeping up with the latest trends; it’s about making more informed and efficient decisions that can help you run stronger, faster, and smarter.

Top 23 Fitness Tech Gifts

In this article, we’ll explore the exciting world of running gadgets and fitness tech, featuring 30 tools that could elevate your training or running to a new level.

From advanced GPS devices to smart wearables and AI-powered coaching apps, these cutting-edge innovations have the power to revolutionize how you train, race, and recover. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or just taking your first strides, there’s something here for every runner seeking to optimize their performance.

As expected a guide of the best running tech is going to trend a little pricier than my stocking stuffers for runners! So you’ve be warned!

1. Runner Safety – InvisaWear Safety Bracelet ($149)

It looks like a beautiful bracelet (or you can get a necklace), but with a quick push of a button you’re notifying people that you’re in trouble and need help.

I like the band style designed for fitness. It’s super soft, easily goes on the wrist and I’d wear it all the time. In testing it, the bracelet never bothered me on a run and I truly liked the comfort of knowing it was right there.

• Alarm can be removed to wash the bracelet.
• Band comes in multiple sizes to find what fits you.
• Hitting the button twice will send a text to up to 5 people you have chosen, along with your GPS location
• No charge needed, this battery will last at least a year
• See current colors and pricing here >>

2. Plantar Fasciitis and Foot Pain – Alleviate Arch Massager ($79)

If you’ve ever experienced or had someone you love deal with PF then you know it’s frustrating and feels like it will never get better. So our resisted PF runner and tester Stacey Gross was honestly blown away by this tool.

She’s been doing Physical Therapy for ages and found that after 3 weeks she was consistently having less and less pain. So this little gadget remains under her desk for use throughout the day.

• Designed for the perfect amount of pressure
• Different peaks for different levels of intensity and feeling
• Comes with a guide to help ensure you get the most from it
• Due to a huge variation in sweat rates this can help you better figure out what you need

3. Fun GPS Tech – Polar Vantage V3 – ($570)

Yes, I know most of you might be thinking about a Garmin.

But I’m slightly embarrassed to admit it, but about 1 year after getting the Garmin Fenix I was completely annoyed at the HR spikes it has all the time and switched to the Polar Vantage. So this one is for all my athletes who refuse to wear a chest strap, but really want to track heart rate.

Having extensively tested the Fenix, Suunto, Coros, Garmin and Polar GPS watches….I’m telling you this one is a winner.

It’s NOT as casual cute as the lusted after rose gold Garmin Fenix, but it’s a stellar watch.

• Most accurate wrist based heart rate sensor
• Connects to smartphones to show notifications, weather and control your music
• Super accurate, dual-frequency GPS system
• Will show altitude, elevation gain and loss
• Optional HR strap – I do pull this out in winter when the blood flow in your wrist is much harder for any watch to read
• Extended battery life of up to 8 days of for regular use and 140 hours of training time on a single charge
• A vast menu of training and recovery suggestions, with 150+ sports to choose from
• Checkout current pricing on Amazon >>

What about FitBit fitness tracker??

I know they are cheaper and act very similar to an Apple Watch, so I did a deep dive to help you compare Garmin Vs FitBit.

4. Hot Weather Training – Cooling Vest for Race Day – ($25)

Do cooling vests work for running? Yes, but not in the way you might assume. This isn’t something that you’ll be wearing during the race. Rather it’s something we’ve seen the elite runners lean in to with great results during hot marathons (also we saw a lot of this on the Tour De France this year!).

The vest is worn prior to racing to help lower the body’s core temperature. This can delay the increase in body temp which results in an increased heart rate and thus increases total effort making it harder to sustain your goal race pace.

More expensive options do exist, but in this case this is all you really need for the workout tech! Featured here is a vest that’s $199, but is really the exact same principle as the $25 option. Ice packs in a vest!

5. Cold Weather Training – Ororo Lightweight Heated Vest – ($149)

Let’s flip the script to winter running! While I do know some runners in the WAY North who will actually run in some heated vests, I think for most runners this falls it to that amazing post run need (or perhaps for that early morning dog walk). Cool running gadgets aren’t always the most obvious!

But imagine finishing that cold weather run, feeling chilled and wanting to avoid that complete freeze as your body cools but the sweat remains. A heated vest is a valuable tool for staying warm and comfortable after winter runs, providing a convenient way to recover and regulate your body temperature.

• Technically it has up to 10 hours of battery life, so you can wear this to those winter games as well
• Heated around the collar your neck will stay warm as well
• Variety of sizes to find what fits you best
• Water resistant so you can wear in a light snow

PSSTTT for anyone reading this is on my wish list this year!!

6. Carbon Plated Top Speed – Nike Vaporfly 3 – ($260)

The shoe’s unique design and advanced technology were credited with helping runners set multiple world records and break long-standing personal bests.

The Nike Vaporfly features Nike’s innovative ZoomX foam, which is designed to provide unparalleled cushioning and energy return. The shoe also features a carbon fiber plate that is embedded in the midsole, which is designed to provide stiffness and help propel the runner forward with each stride.

It’s a bouncy shoe like I’ve never felt before! And has indeed become my go to racing shoe for some 10K PR’s recently.

Anyone who follows me on Instagram knows that I was STOKED to try these in a 10K race after months of testing the Vaporfly 2. I had a PR, but also with just 10 miles on the shoes the outsole peeled away and I chose to return them and keep using the 2.

So while I liked the feel and performance of the Vaporfly 3, it was absolutely not durable. Somewhat to be expected as they try to make the sole as thin as possible.

In both Nike’s you will notice a feeling of arch support. This was mildly uncomfortable to me at first, but I quickly forgot about it.

• Neutral Carbon Fiber Shoe
• Weight: 6.9 oz men’s, 5.8 oz women’s
• Heel drop: 8mm
• $250
• See current colors and availability
• Read my full Nike Vaporfly 3 review

7. Small Space At Home Full Gym – Speediance Gym Monster – (Starting at $3,200)

A BIG expenditure, but when I consider that a Lifetime Fitness membership here for my husband and I is $300/month…maybe not such an expense after all. Plus it has a small footprint and doesn’t attach to the wall.

The Speediance is a full body workout machine that can be used for cable workouts, barbell workouts, rowing or as a ski erg. It’s become a go  to for Coach Amanda’s husband, who loves the follow along workouts and having a cable machine at home.

And talk about space saving! It really is a very small footprint and would absolutely work well in many of the apartments or condos.

Speediance uses a dual motor drive system, which does make it possible to better even out the weight between sides and make those small adjustments. What’s really nice about the adjustments is that the machine is also going to track all your workouts and movements per body part, which better allows you to track progress.

• Adjust weight digitally by individual pound increments per side
• Free Lifetime Membership to programs (currently 370 workouts)
• Free standing, no wall mounting
• Allows you to move around the actual cable on the platform
• Provides rowing option

Available directly from Speediance (Bigger sale prices often shown here).

8. More Passive Activity – Katalyst EMS Suit – (Starting at $1,499)

Electric muscle stimulation (EMS) has long been popular as a recovery tool, but is creating a new buzz around the potential for muscle growth.

This Katalyst EMS Suit induces muscle contractions that can be rapid and frequent, quick with long pauses, or sustained for several seconds or minutes. It works to help muscle growth by contracting muscle fibers and creating tiny tears. That’s exactly what happens when you lift weights in the gym.

So, how effective are consistent EMS sessions for building muscle? Experts say you’ll see a 1% increase in muscle mass after five or six weeks of therapy. Your muscles should see a 10%-15% increase in muscle function with the same consistency.

In our testing, we would say this is best for those who can’t consistently lift weights, have limited range of motion or other conditions that might hold them back from traditional weights.

While EMS focuses on muscle growth, experts have also found its role in reducing muscular atrophy. This condition occurs when muscle tissue begins decreasing.

Muscle atrophy primarily occurs in older adults but can start as early as 30 in some cases (general muscle loss starts for everyone in their 30’s). Research has demonstrated EMS’ role in helping critically ill patients with muscle atrophy.

See the different options on Katalyst’s site.

9. Know Your Biomarkers –  InsideTracker – ($489)

Blood work. I know it doesn’t sound sexy, but ohhhh baby bring it on!

Knowing exactly where our levels are from Iron to Vitamin D to Cortisol can make a huge difference in our training. It allows us to prevent injuries, over training and eliminate fatigue. This has been something that I’ve seen so many athletes benefit from who are looking to optimize their total health and feel better. It’s not cheap, but it’s a ton of information and well worth the investment.

• Super easy to order
• Results make sense and come with tons of FOOD first options to help fix anything that’s not optimal
• High or low levels based on athletic lifestyle – again comparing you to people similar, not the general population
• Hormone deficits that might be from over training or nutrition – examples are high cortisol or high inflammation markers
• App gives you an easy way to track new tools you want to implement

Order the test online from InsideTracker  –Code RUNTOTHEFINISH gets you 20% off

10. Heart Rate Training – Polar OH1 Arm Band – ($89)

I LOVE training by HR, but always hated the discomfort of chest straps.  But can an armband really track things correctly? Thus far everything points to yes and it’s infinitely more comfortable.

Honestly my biggest issue is forgetting to put it on in the winter and then struggling to work it up my sleeve.

The Polar H10 chest strap is still going to be the gold standard, but the armband is infinitely more accurate than your GPS watch just based on the location of the reading.

11. Total Relaxation – Theragun Mini Massage Gun – ($199)

See my budget massage gun recommendations if you aren’t interested in spending quite so much to say “I love you, let’s chill out”.

Prying the massage gun out of the hands of van 1 during our Ragnar relay proved to be quite the task. They were in love and enjoying every minute of loosening up stiff muscles from sitting in the van, working on tight glutes and all form of other issues.

There are a variety of these on the market, the most common name is Hypervolt which runs about twice the price for the exact same features. The bonus of the mini is for anyone who travels! They can get that full power with something that’s really easy to pack.

12. BONUS IDEA: Vibrating Foam Roller ($149)

If they don’t need a massage gun because they love a good foam roller, checkout the new vibrating foam roller from Hyperice. The bonus is we know that the vibration sends a signal to the brain that helps to stop any pain signals, so it can allow them to really work on an area that’s sore.

I actually super love these workout gadgets even at the higher price point. The action of vibration allows you to work a little deeper in to the muscles because it relaxes them.

13. For the Desk Person – UpRight Go Posture – ($69)

After recently sharing my own issues with my shoulders rolling forward due to all the computer and Instagram time, I was overwhelmed by how many of you felt the same!

That started an entire blog post and video with exercises to help all of us.

But in addition to that, you can’t go wrong with that constant reminder.

Because honestly this one is a case where perfect practice makes it a habit! You’ll start out with a daily training session and then use the device more as a reminder to hold that good form

14. Return from Injury – Lever One ($999)

Want to feel like you have access to an AlterG treadmill at home…well here is your chance! This company is actually based near me in Colorado, so I had the opportunity to install this device on my own treadmill for testing.

For the injured athlete or those who find they just can’t increase mileage without injury, the Lever is an incredible tool. One of my RTTF coaches also used it consistently during marathon training when starting to hit some super high mileage and getting her to rock that sub 3:30 marathon.

• Take up to 45lbs of your body weight off
• Allows for returning from an injury with less pressure
• Allows you to practice speed work with less intensity (great for cadence)
• Removable, so you only snap it on when needed
• Lever Up Discount Code: AMANDA15 for 15% off

15.Combo Gift – Bose Tempo Sunglasses with Audio ($249)

You know I’m a fan of sunglasses for runners. It helps to reduce perceived effort, protects our eyes and in this case…they provide music! This is one cool running gadget that will quickly be co-opted for other sports.

When you want a one two punch in a great running gift. I did a full video review to help you see how they work.

• David has been using these a ton while biking and LOVES them
• Without a bud in your ear, you can still fully hear everything around you
• Sunglasses still feel really light weight and you don’t notice the added area for the music controls
• Works with Bluetooth to stream from your phone, so you aren’t loading music
• Easy controls to start, stop, pause and forward
• Checkout current prices and more details >>

I can run next to David when he’s wearing these and I do not hear the music, so that’s a bonus to not be that noisy person on the trails.

16.For the Goal Setter – 1-1 Coaching ($165/month)

One-on-one coaching, though not a traditional piece of fitness technology, is an invaluable and personalized gift for anyone looking to elevate their fitness journey. In today’s digital age, the human touch is often undervalued, but the guidance and expertise of a certified coach can make a world of difference.

Whether it’s for a beginner seeking to establish a solid workout routine, an athlete aiming to reach peak performance, or someone striving to overcome specific fitness challenges, RTTF one-on-one coaching provides tailored guidance, motivation, and accountability.

This personalized approach ensures that every aspect of one’s fitness, from goal-setting to exercise techniques, is optimized for success, making it a truly thoughtful and transformative fitness gift that can inspire lasting change and growth.

17.On the Go Hydration – UVBRITE Self Cleaning Water Bottle – ($40)

Anyone who spends time sweating knows that they have to stay on top of hydration. And while we love our electrolyte powders and sometimes fancy nutrition, what we often simply need is access to water and a reminder to drink it.

Since we’re also committed to reducing plastic waste, I am over the moon about this water bottle.

At 18.6 oz you can fill the bottle from nearly any water source and then run it through a cycle to purify the water! Mind blown!

• Insulated to keep water cold or hot
• Food grade stainless steel
• Two sterilization modes

18.Tracking Body Changes – Zozofit ($98)

Are you curious about your body fat measurement, but don’t have easy access to something like a BodPod? I started testing out this crazy looking Zozofit suit earlier this year and I feel like it’s pretty darn accurate.

But what’s more important is that using 1 tool consistently is the best way to measure progress rather than jump through different types of measurements or relying on human error with the skin calipers. Now you can easily do it at home by pulling on this thin space looking suit.

After pulling it on, you simply start the app and it guides you through turning 360 to take snapshots and give you your measurements! You’ll be able to see changes in different body parts, along with your total body fat.

Zozofit Discount Code Amanda: good for $10 off

19.At Home Healing – Red Light Therapy Panel ($49)

Red light therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy or photobiomodulation, uses specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to penetrate the skin and stimulate various biological processes. It’s been used to manage conditions like arthritis, joint pain, and muscle aches, which can often hinder workout consistency.

I remember a few years ago having a chiropractor use a wand like tool on my ankle a few days prior to a race and it felt dramatically better. You can find them in wands or panels for at home use, completely approved and safe.

Honestly, who knows if it was time or the therapy…but I’m open to anything! In the least scientific way possible, I’ll describe it as the wavelengths of the red light reaching your cells to increase ATP, which reduces cellular stress and allows healing to be kick-started.

There is a WIDE range in prices for red light therapy and right now I tend towards looking at what has what we need without being too expensive because I want to see more studies.

20. Menopause Help – Embr Wave 2 Hot Flash Relief ($299)

Embr Wave is a wearable temperature-regulating device that is designed to help you feel more comfortable by delivering thermal sensations to your wrist. The device was developed by Embr Labs, a technology company that specializes in personal thermal comfort solutions.

If you’re thinking so what? Well then my friends you haven’t dealt with the hot flashes of menopause! Not only will it help in those moments, but can improve sleep as well. I’ve got this on my to test list!

It doesn’t affect your core body temperature; instead, it focuses on the skin’s surface to help you feel more comfortable. And it looks like a lovely piece of jewelry, so people aren’t going to have any idea that this cool fitness gadget is actually saving you from stripping down because you’ve had a heat wave!

21. Prepared Healthy Meal Delivery ($65-$$$)

Besides getting regular massages, nothing has been more wonderful to my life in the past year than this.

It may not be directly TECHNOLOGY related, but whatever. I feel like having pre-made healthy meals delivered falls right in to the favorite gifts to help me run better category.

• Frozen options that can quickly be heated
• Filled with WHOLE foods
• Gluten free, dairy free and still full of flavor
• Eliminates stress during the week or after traveling
• Ensures we get in good nutrition post run with some awesome smoothies

You can certainly set up a monthly subscription for them or just treat them with a one time box.

My top two picks (and yes I’ve tested a ton):

• Daily Harvest – great for flatbreads, vegan desserts, frozen to mix smoothies (Get access to my RUNTOTHEFINISH discount of up to $40 off.)
• Splendid Spoon – great for soups, hearty bowls, premixed smoothies (Get $60 off your first 3 boxes )

22. Hit the Pool – FORM Smart Swim Goggles ($179)

I was on swim team for years in high school and my brain can barely comprehend what on Earth that would have been like with these goggles. Whether you’re training for a triathlon or just swimming for cross training, these are a game changer.

Through the goggles you can get real time swim data! No need to glance at a watch. And they work for both pool and open water swims!

Interestingly these are cheaper on Amazon than the website, so enjoy that link!

• Distance, Time, Pace, Stroke Rate
• Easily pairs with Strave and other apps
• Includes guided workouts and imports workouts

Talk about some cool fitness tech! I think this one may take the cake for me right  now in terms of new and interesting.

23. Sleep Number i8 Bed

Listen if sleep is our number 1 recovery tool, then why wouldn’t we as runners be looking for all the fitness gadgets to improve our sleep!!

We got a Sleep Number when moving in to our new house and 100% it’s been a truly fabulous investment for us. Not just because when David broke is ribs mountain biking he could sleep at an angle or because we can both adjust the softness to our liking or because it’s not hot like foam… but also because I’m secretly in love with the foot warmer.

I did a full review on this big purchase if you’re thinking of an upgrade checkout it. Sleep Number bed review!

Running Gadgets to Avoid

Since, I have tested and been asked about a few fitness gadgets that did not appear in the round up, I thought I’d give you just a little about why. And as always, you can decide for yourself!

This doesn’t make me popular with brands looking to send me things, but I figure if I’m going to give you honest workout gadgets reviews then it needs to include the things that I absolutely wouldn’t spend my money on after testing.

Nuurv Insoles

I found them super hard to use with the large sensor on the side that is hard to remove and potential recommendations to change stride that are unnecessary.

Stryd Power Meter

While I think that it’s an incredible tool, it’s not necessary for 90% of the runners I know. The sensor gives you new metrics to train by power…so more data. If you haven’t mastered perceived exertion or generally following heart rate I think it could be overwhelming.

I wrote more about running power and why it’s great for cyclists, but so far iffy for runners.

Training Mask

Do you need to practice running in an oxygen deprived state. NOOOOOOOOO. It’s not going to improve your running at altitude or make you faster, it’s just going to make training harder.

Need more good fitness gift ideas?

• 45 Best Running Gifts for all Prices
• Wellness Gift Guide (helping them recover better!)
• 35 Best Fitness Gifts for Her – Going beyond running
• Trail Running Gifts
• Men’s Fitness Gift Guide

The world of fitness technology is continually evolving, offering a vast array of gadgets and devices designed to enhance our workouts, monitor our progress, and elevate our overall health and well-being. From advanced heart rate monitors like the Polar H10 to smartwatches, fitness apps, and other innovative tools, there’s no shortage of options to choose from.

These pieces of fitness tech not only provide valuable data but also inspire motivation and help us stay on track with our fitness goals.

As we embrace the digital age, it’s important to remember that while fitness technology can be a powerful ally, it should complement, not replace, the fundamentals of a healthy lifestyle.

The right balance between the latest gadgets and tried-and-true principles like proper nutrition, regular exercise, and rest is key to achieving long-lasting results. So, as you explore the exciting world of fitness tech, remember that the most significant transformation happens within yourself, fueled by dedication and the desire to lead a healthier, more active life.

Ultimately, the choice of fitness tech is a personal one, influenced by your specific goals and preferences. Whether you’re looking to optimize your training, track your progress, or simply make your workouts more enjoyable, there’s a device or gadget that can cater to your needs.

So, embrace the technological advancements available to you, and use them as powerful tools to help you on your fitness journey. With the right combination of dedication, knowledge, and the right fitness tech, you’re well on your way to achieving your health and fitness aspirations.

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