Life
The Abdomenizer. Tae Bo. Bow-Flex. With every year that comes and goes so do a slew of fitness fads — so what's hot right now? I looked to Amazon to find the most popular fitness products of the past year, and what I found was surprising.
Instead of the usual clunky machines and gimmicky gadgets promising to "whittle away your waist," "obliterate your abs," this year’s popular products aim to help you reach your fitness goals (whatever they may be) with convenient, portable, and high tech gear that makes your workouts easier and more effective. These products are for people who want to set and achieve goals tailored to their lifestyle and schedule.
Usually when it comes to fitness, people sign up for the gym in January with well-meaning resolutions, but by June, most of us (myself included) have fallen off the workout bandwagon. The familiar cycle has given way to products that are easier to fit into a busy schedule, like light-weight, portable gear you can carry in your purse, wearable tech that tracks your progress, and items that help motivate you to get moving.
No matter what type of exercise you prefer, there is something for you among the most popular fitness products on Amazon over the last year that will get you pumped up and ready to work out.
1
A Tangle-Free Jump Rope For Cardio On The Go
Cardio doesn’t have to mean going for a run or hitting the elliptical. Mix it up with a jump rope. This tangle free, easily adjustable jumping rope is super lightweight and great or a warm-up, quick cardio session, or part of a high-intensity interval training workout. Plus it’s easy to store, making it a great piece of equipment for travel.
2
A Fitness Tracker That's Packed With Features
Fitbits are no fad — they've been around for a few years now with no sign of going anywhere. By far the most popular model of Fitbit (and activity tracker in general) is the One Wireless Activity Tracker with over 10,000 positive reviews on Amazon. And it's no wonder — this model is packed with features yet costs a fraction of the price of its competitors. Not only does it it track steps, distance, calories burned, and stairs climbed, it also monitors how long and well you sleep and wakes you (and not your partner) with a silent alarm. Plus, all the data is wirelessly synced to your computer so you can track your fitness goals easily.
3
A Sweat-Wicking Waistband That's More Convenient (And More Comfortable) Than A Fanny Pack
Keep your phone in one pocket of this highly reviewed running belt and your keys in the other. The separate pockets keep your phone from getting scratched and allows you to go for a jog without having to hold it in your hand. The soft belt is made with moisture wicking fabric to keep all your belongings safe and out of your way.
4
Resistance Bands For A Full Body Work Out You Can Take Anywhere
Resistance bands are extremely portable, making them the perfect option for a workout on the go. This set comes with five bands at different resistances, a carry bag, eBook, online videos, and instructional booklet. They’re great for stretching, strength training, and can be integrated into several workouts.
5
An Exercise Ball To Amp Up Your Workouts At Home (Or In The Office)
Work your core and improve balance with an exercise ball. This one comes in various sizes and can be used for yoga, pilates, strength training, and even as a desk chair (yes, you read that right — it’s a great ergonomic chair option for your office, plus you can work your core at work). The ball is leak proof and won’t burst, even under a pressure-filled workout. Plus it comes with a free online workout guide so you can get the most out of your new tool.
6
A Non-Chafing Sports Bra That Amazon Reviewers Swear By
The right clothing is just as important to your workout as the right equipment. This non-chafing sports bra is supportive, comfortable, affordable and, according to the 12,000 positive reviews, it's also the best on Amazon.
7
The Famous Fit Board From Shark Tank
Funded on Shark Tank, this balance board is a great way to engage not only your abs, but your entire body. Squeeze your core tight to stay on the lightweight, portable board. Improve your balance and strengthen muscles with an activity that seems way more fun than going to the gym.
8
A Smart Phone Mount For Hands-Free GPS
Whether you're riding your bike or jogging with a stroller, this non-slip phone mount gives you easy access to your phone so you can see your route, get directions, or change the song without pulling over to dig around in your pockets. The hands-free rubber grip cradle is easy to install and super practical.
9
A Foam Roller To Work Out The Kinks
Stabilize your spine and ease muscle pain with a foam roller. They’re great to use after a tough workout or even for physical therapy. This one has a smooth surface that not only helps relax muscles, but it also triggers pressure points to relieve pain and discomfort. Prevent muscle injury by regularly using one.
10
A Roller Wheel That Works Your Upper Body
Strengthen your abs, shoulders, arms, and back with one easy-to-use exercise wheel. This ab roller uses a fluid movement to work your entire upper body. It’s extremely lightweight and portable and comes with an instructional fitness guide so you can really get working.
11
Kettlebells Designed For A More Comfortable Grip
Kettlebells have always been a go-to for total body workouts (they are super effective, easy to use, and take up minimal space), but these weights are even better with a new design that makes them even more comfortable to hold. Choose from a set of kettlebells or just buy one depending on how hard you want to train. If you decide on the set, you’ll get a five pound, 10-pound, and 15-pound kettlebell and a training DVD.
12
A Color Changing Towel To Keep You Cool
Beat the heat with a cooling towel. Unlike other cooling towels, you can tell when you need to give it a dunk in cold water to refresh it because it changes colors. The breathable mesh towel is perfect for outdoor runners or athletes who really break a sweat. Wet the towel, wring it out, and snap it around your neck or head to stay cool.
Bustle may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from Bustle's editorial and sales departments.
