Carving out time for exercise can sometimes feel like the workout itself – or “the hardest part is showing up”, as the common PT refrain goes.
For those moments when willpower is hard to muster, some new kit can be a gentle incentive to get you on your way (if a cancellation fee hasn’t already convinced you to show up to class). And for anyone you who happily exercises on a regular basis, well, you deserve something to celebrate.
Here’s our edit of high-performing activewear that will make you feel sportier just by putting it on; accessories to boost your fitness routine and a few beauty and wellbeing buys to support you from the inside out. Time to get stretching...
The Training Kit Your Skin Can Breathe In
Investing in some chic running gear might feel counterintuitive when you’ll likely be sweating 10 minutes in. But Nike’s AeroSwift line is designed to make you feel good while supporting your performance. Pair these breathable, ultra-light statement shorts (they’re available in men’s sizes here, too) with the matching top and the coordinating Pegasus, and you’ll be flying. £69.99, Nike
The All-Day Hydration Source
Often, we turn to electrolytes to replenish us post-exercise. Supplements brand Artah suggests a different approach. Its blend of magnesium, potassium, calcium, vitamin C and prebiotic fibre is designed to be taken daily, to sustain energy and support your gut and nervous system so you show up to class as your best self, every time. From £24, Artah
The Headphones You Can Wear Everywhere (Really)
A good playlist makes any workout fly by. Now, you can soundtrack your swim, too, with Shokz’ OpenSwim Pro headphones – they’re waterproof down to two metres and can store 32GB worth of music, so you can download songs for every kind of stroke. $230, Shokz
The Post-Sweat Skin Purifier
Working out + sweat + fitted clothes = body breakouts you’d rather weren’t there. Fortunately, Dermalogica’s clarifying solution comes in a handy 360-degree spray bottle to help you reach anywhere that blemishes form. Spritz on post-workout (ideally post-shower) and let the salicylic acid, witch hazel and tea tree oil combo work its spot-fighting magic. £25, Dermalogica at Lookfantastic
The Water-Bottle Phone-Holder Hybrid
A very modern but no less real gym dilemma: you’re trying to follow the workout plan from your app/video/coach of choice, but you’ve nowhere to balance your phone. Bala – the brand behind our go-to ankle weights – has the solution: a water bottle with a magnetic phone mount. A portable tripod and hydrator in one. $59, Bala
The Vest To Help You Run For Longer
Long-distance running requires adequate hydration. Salomon’s vest comes with pockets perfectly sized for two hydration packets, without adding extra weight or bulk as you move. (For shorter runs, it fits your phone, too.) £100, Salomon
The Swimming Cap That Fits All Hair Types
If you’ve ever tried (and failed) to fit your hair into a swimming cap, the Soul Cap is for you. This inclusive swimwear brand began with this design: a swim cap designed with all hair textures in mind – specifically long or voluminous hair. Its tight seal will keep any hairstyle dry while streamlining your silhouette for maximum performance in the water. £17, Soul Cap
The Grounding Yoga Mat
Never get your mat mixed up with someone else’s again with this bright number from Maiya. Its padma (lotus flower) print was designed in Mumbai by artist Shweta Malhotra, representing “the grit and resilience that empowers beauty to overcome any obstacle”. The exact motivation you need to get into your flow. The extra-cushioned finish will help, too. $148, Maiya
The Grip Socks With A Little Personality
Not all grip socks are made equal. Leelo Active’s not only provide steady, sticky support on the Reformer, but come with a surprise on the sole – hopefully brightening up those leg lifts when you glimpse these little chilli peppers in the mirror. £14, Leelo Active
The Cycling Sunglasses For On & Off The Bike
There are sunglasses and there are cycling sunglasses. Regular ones aren’t suitable for long-distance biking, sporty ones don’t quite work with your officewear day to day. Oakley’s EVZero combines all the technicalities required for sport with a wraparound design that looks like it’s come from the runway. Win, win. $214, Oakley
