7 Technology-Related Fitness Gifts That Won’t Break Your Budget
There have been some pretty cool advancements in technology over the past 10 years, from 3D printing, to the rapid growth of AI, to cars that can park themselves. The world of health and fitness has experienced some upgrades as well, with mattresses that can improve your sleep and virtual reality headsets that can turn your workouts into a superhero movie. There are even all-in-one, interactive gyms the size of a closet that can train you for any activity under the sun.
As awesome as all these products can be, the unfortunate truth is that they often come with a hefty price tag. And whether you’re shopping for yourself, or looking for a gift for a fitness buff who loves technology, it can be especially tricky to find items that are budget-friendly. Well, fear not! I’ve scoured the internet and created a list of fitness gifts that will scratch that tech itch without leaving you with an empty checking account. I’ve also included a fancy version for each item, in case your budget allows you to splurge a little.
7 AFFORDABLE GIFTS FOR TECH-SAVVY ATHLETES
1. Electric Protein Shaker
If you know someone who really loved the tornado-in-soda-bottle experiment from grade-school science class, then this might be the perfect gift for them. The electric protein shaker by VOLTRX is a game changer for mixing up powdered drinks. It’s a major upgrade from the old ball shakers, which can be noisy and take a significant amount of time and arm power to blend. It features a motor that can pulverize your powdered drinks, leaving no lumps behind. The shaker is also BPA-free, easy to clean, and, for extra fun and ridiculousness, the base of this shaker lights up.
Fancy Version: Vitamix Ascent X4 Blender
2. Wireless Muscle Stimulator
The MASTOGO wireless muscle stimulator is an ideal gift for those who are serious about recovery. Often used by physical therapists and hospitals, muscle stimulators can help with pain management and strengthening weak muscles. But they are also an excellent tool for post-workout recovery, aiding in muscle soreness and speeding up muscle repair. This product comes with two units, meaning you can work on multiple areas at once. In addition, the fact that it’s wireless allows you to move freely while you recover.
Fancy Version: Chirp Halo
3. Electric Lunchbox
This electric lunchbox by Crockpot is a great gift for people who are into cooking, meal prep, or are trying to forego eating out in favor of consuming healthier meals. It will allow your gift recipient the luxury of heating up home cooked meals without having to use the dirty, stinky office microwave. Instead, they can warm their lunch at their desk, in their car, or even at the gym. The lunchbox heats up to 195°F and will keep food warm for up to 2 hours. Imagine digging into your favorite recovery meal seconds after you finish your workout!
Fancy Version: Thermomix TM6 Cooking Robot
4. Chalkless Chalk
Ok, this one might be a stretch, but new technology comes in many forms and isn’t limited to computers and gadgets! Recently, science provided us with Chalkless, a form of clear, dustless chalk that helps improve your grip. It works by magically drying out your hands without leaving any residue on your gear or equipment, which is a nice alternative to loose and/or liquid chalk. In addition, you only need to use a small amount of this product compared with other chalk products, saving money in the long run. Chalkless would be a wonderful present for anyone who is working on their grip, lifting heavy weights, or participating in activities like climbing or gymnastics.
Fancy Version: RUNGNE Maglock Ultra-Fine Climbing Chalk
5. Cordless Smart Jump Rope
If you know someone who loves cardio and gamifying their workouts, then a smart jump rope would be a fitting, budget-friendly gift option for them. The RENPHO Cordless Smart Jump Rope is especially cool because it not only allows you to adjust the length of the rope, but it also features the option to jump without a rope entirely. The weighted balls help imitate the sensation of jumping with a real rope, which is great for people who don’t have a lot of space to work out in. The rope also comes with a digital display on the handles, as well as an app where you can track your jumping data, set weekly goals, and compete against other jumpers.
Fancy Version: Crossrope AMP Smart Jump Rope
6. Smart Yoga Mat
The YogiFi smart mat is a good gift idea for yogis who prefer to practice in their own space, but love getting feedback on their form and tracking their progress. This smart mat analyzes your alignment and balance, and gives you personalized suggestions and workout plans. It also features built-in sensors that can track progress, and comes with an app that has a ton of yoga, meditation, and breathing classes. I know this yoga mat is a bit on the expensive side compared to other items on this list, so if you’re looking for something slightly cheaper, you might want to check out a Lifeforme yoga mat, which includes printed alignment indicators on its surface.
Fancy Version: Yoganotch
7. Interactive Punching Trainer
Sparring can be a bit boring, especially if you don’t have a partner to work with, but this interactive punching trainer is a great way for a boxer to add some fun to their workouts when they’re exercising solo. It features an LED display that shows the number of hits as well as overall progress, and lights that illuminate to indicate where and when to hit, which is a great way to improve hand-eye coordination and reaction speed. It’s easy to mount, and saves a ton of space compared to a full-size punching bag. As an added bonus, the punching trainer features Bluetooth connectivity, meaning you can play your favorite songs or podcasts on it from your phone.
Fancy Version: Nexersys N3 Boxing Trainer
You don’t need to be swimming in cash to experience the benefits of new technology. Bargain buys can absolutely make your life a bit more easy or fun. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or another tech-savvy fitness enthusiast, I hope that the items in this list give you some ideas for gifts within your budget.