When it comes to must-have fitness gadgets and running tech, 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 24 Fitness Tech Gifts
In this article, we’ll explore the exciting world of running gadgets and fitness tech, featuring 24 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 – Suunto Race Watch ($399)
We know, it’s not Garmin, but our gear testers have been busy this year testing different brands of fitness devices jam-packed with different types of data.
This Suunto watch is packed with features for athletes who want to dive into the details—think advanced metrics, recovery insights, and even race-preparation tools.
For seasoned runners who love having a wealth of data at their fingertips (and who prioritize map and navigation features), this watch could be perfect for you.
If you’re a trail runner, you may want to check this one out as it has multiple GPS modes, map uploading capabilities, plus altimeter and barometric functions.
- Amoled Screen and large display (1.43 in.)
- Data galore: Steps, HRV, 24/7 HR, Resting HR
- Extended battery life
- Multiple modes of GPS
- LOVE the flashlight
- More than 90 different activity modes
AMOLED displays usually drain battery pretty quickly, but the Suunto Race has enough power to stay reliable as a daily wearable, which is a huge plus!
The watch takes between 1-2 hours to charge completely and starts notifying you of low power once the battery level reaches roughly 30%.
4. Hot Weather Training – Omius Cooling Hat ($200)
We’ve seen this hat popping up all over social media this past summer; we even saw Sifan Hassan and Eliud Kipchoge sporting it at some of their recent marathon attempts.
The cooling effect relies on moisture to activate evaporation, so if you’re sweating consistently or have access to water, it performs well. When you first put it on, you’ll feel an instant cool blast.
While it may seem like it stops working as that cool blast fades, we promise that once you take the hat off you’ll realize it was still actually keeping your head from overheating.
If you’re a heavy sweater, spend a lot of time training outdoors, and are looking for a high-tech, head-focused cooling solution, the Omius cooling system might be worth the investment. 
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 4 ($270)
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.
In our opinion, it is best for the half-marathon distance and below. However, you could get away with wearing it for the marathon.
If you’ve worn the Vaporfly 3, you’ll notice some differences here. The midsole has been slimmed down slightly, and the stack height has been reduced, making it the lightest version yet.
They kept the ZoomX foam you know and love. The Flyplate has been improved and has a more aggressive curve, which is designed to maximize leverage from your foot and ankle, aka more pop!
- Weight: 6.7 oz Men’s, 5.3 oz Women’s (Unisex sizing)
- Stack Height: 35 mm
- Heel Drop: 6 mm
- Available in 3 colors
- Not available in wide
- Available on Nike.com $260
- Read our full review of the Nike Vaporfly 4 here >>
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. Treadmill that Feels Like Running Outside – Wahoo KICKR RUN ($7,000)
We know, the price tag on this one is a little alarming. But this is “the treadmill that’s not a treadmill”.
So maybe what we really need is to think of this a little bit differently. It’s about the experience you have while training, meaning making it feel a whole lot more like running outside!
The Wahoo gives you a surface similar to running on a hard-packed trail. PLUS, not only can you change the incline and decline from the Wahoo app, you have the ability to turn on the side-to-side tilt feature.
This is terrain mode, which is similar to when you’re running outside and hit a slight dip. It’s a quick little lateral tilt and then right back to level.
Another feature that we love (well, after taking a few weeks to get used to it) is the run-free mode. If you’ve ever run on a curved treadmill, it’s kinda similar to that, but with a boatload of technology to give you that hands-free, run without thinking about it experience!
- Bluetooth and WiFI to connect with Wahoo Devices and Garmin
- Deck with a feeling similar to hard packed dirt
- RunFree Mode
- Side to Side Tilt
If you want even more info about the Wahoo Kickr Run Treadmill, check out our full review.
10. Heart Rate Training – Frontier X2 Heart Rate Monitor ($405)
Unlike other smart watches, smart rings, and other HRMs, the Frontier X2 “provides continuous ECG with real-time heart health feedback even during exercise, ensuring high signal quality with comprehensive heart health monitoring during any activity.”
The ECG readings and heart rate zone insights are valuable for any user, not only athletes.
The true benefit of utilizing the monitor comes over time, when you can leverage the app to get detailed physiological insights and track your heart rhythm deviations.
You can connect the heart rate monitor to other devices as an external HRM and the data is automatically passed to the respective platform (Garmin, Polar etc.).
Use code RUN to get 30% off 
Plus, for the ladies, you can get the Frontier Sports Bra to easily clip the heart rate monitor on without needing the strap.
11. Total Relaxation – Theragun Mini Massage Gun ($209)
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 ($209)
If they don’t need a massage gun because they love a good foam roller, checkout the 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. For the Goal Setter – 1-1 Coaching (starting at $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.
16. Lighweight, Compact Drone – HoverAir ProMax ($699)
If you’ve been doing a lot of hold-your-phone selfie run videos, you’ll suddenly see your form and may feel like you need to run faster for that picture-perfect stride. Oh, the things we do for content.
I love that it can follow me, lead me, hover, and do a fun 360 spin to show that I’m running in an insanely cool place, which I feel like is so hard to capture in other videos.
Whether you’re using this to capture content for social media or just like document your training or adventures, this is a really fun gift idea! 
- Very lightweight for carrying (folded like the size of a paperback book)
- Wide variety of filming options
- Can have system wide settings so it always records in vertical for example
- Ability to control the quality and output from the video
- Good quality video for usage on social or YouTube
- Designed for action whether that’s running, cycling, skiing, whatever
- This model is NOT for water, but they have a new AQUA version that is
It’s super easy to use, has a ton of different settings and can download your photos/videos in seconds. Of course, always check ahead to see if there are any rules for the area you want to film in. Many National Parks and trails do have a no drone policy!
17. Hi-tech Recovery – Nike Hyperice Hyperboot ($899)
No, these aren’t space boots, though they definitely look like something from the future.
They’re actually a compression-style recovery tool, and honestly, we think they’re pretty cool if you’re looking for a gadget-type gift.
They’re on the pricier side, but if you’re into running tech and looking to level up your recovery game, the Hyperboots are worth a look.
You won’t be walking around in these; a little movement is fine, but the Hyerboot is designed for post-workout recovery while you’re sitting back and relaxing.
Each booth features heat and compression chambers, similar to Hyperice’s popular compression boots. You can customize your session, choosing to activate all the chambers or focus on specific sections for a more targeted massage.
At $899, they’re definitely a commitment. Would we recommend them to every runner? Probably not, there are plenty of more affordable ways to give your feet and legs some love.
But for tech-loving athletes who enjoy recovery tools, these might just be your next favorite splurge.
18. Indoor Cycling Made Fun – NordicTrack x24 Bike ($2,299)
We mean it when we say this NordicTrack bike is going to make you excited to cross-train, rather than dread it.
The X24 is unlike any of the others because the bike actually inclines and declines! That’s right, beyond changing the resistance, you can change the angle of the ride just like you would on your treadmill.
After a number of rides by both of us to test out features and classes, I’m ready to say this might be my favorite spin bike ever. And if you’ve read reviews around here, you know I’m not one to lightly give out that kind of praise!
- An iFIT Pro Membership is required to access the full content and features on the equipment.
- Autobreeze fan that changes with the intensity of the workout
- 2-sided pedals with SPD and toe clips + straps
- Software: iFIT workouts
- SmartAdjust that changes incline, decline and resistance
- Syncs with Strava, Garmin Connect, Google Fit and Apple Health
- Watch your favorite shows through available streaming services
We could keep gushing over this bike, so head over to the full review of the NordicTrack x24 Bike to hear all about the different features!
19. 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!
20. Gamified Treadmill – Aviron Victory Treadmill – ($3,599)
Find yourself getting bored while running on the treadmill? What if we told you there’s a treadmill out there that you can play games?
The 22-inch high-definition touchscreen serves as a full entertainment hub, giving you access to streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, as well as Aviron’s unique library of gamified workouts and virtual routes.
The membership includes games, challenges, coach-led workouts, virtual nature scenes, guided workouts, and Les Mills. They are also always adding content so there is something for everyone.
The games all involve changes in speed and/or incline to achieve goals and earn points. We were happy to see you can still do most of these as a walking workout as well.
If you need an extra kick of a social aspect, there is a community of nearly 14,000 people on Facebook. People challenge each other, cheer on each other, ask questions and are so supportive. There are even Aviron staff in the group and invite feature requests for their equipment.
Our team has tested a bunch of treadmills this year, and overall, we’ve noticed that prices are generally climbing even for the most basic of setups. If you’re looking for a way to stay motivated while working out indoors, we give this one a thumbs up.
21. Hit the Pool – FORM Smart Swim Goggles ($149)
I was on the 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 on 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.
22. Cooling Mattress Topper – Chilipad ($569)
Are you a hot sleeper? Tired of tossing and turning because you can’t cool down while trying to catch some zzz’s?
After being a little skeptical, we have to say that the Chilipad from SleepMe actually is worth the price tag. It worked so well, we actually had to turn the settings up a little bit because it was like sleeping in an igloo!
It works by water flowing through, not like a waterbed —just a little to help you cool off. The system will adjust the temperature up and down throughout the night based on your sleep schedule.
23. Compact Home Gym – Tonal 2 (starting at $4,295)
If the Speediance home gym above felt a bit too bulky for your space, the Tonal 2 might be the perfect fit.
All you really need is some wall space and a power outlet within six feet, and you’re good to go!
With the required 12-month membership, you’ll get unlimited user accounts and personalized training right in the comfort of your home.
The Tonal automatically adjusts resistance based on your fitness level and goals, so you can progress safely without the guesswork (or the risk of lifting too heavy too soon).
It also includes a built-in high-resolution camera that analyzes your movements and offers real-time coaching cues, plus post-workout clips for reviewing your form.
Since it’s a wall-mounted setup, once it’s installed, that’s its permanent spot. It’s ideal for small spaces, but be sure to leave enough room to use the adjustable arms and all the included accessories (bar, handle rope) comfortably.
24. For the Science Nerd – hDrop – ($249)
If you’re shopping for a science nerd, this is a fun gift!
It’s super easy to set up and use (even for someone like me who struggles with technology). And for slightly more than the cost of most lab-based sweat tests, you can have personalized sweat data on all of your runs in the palm of your hand.
There are a few different wearable sweat monitors out there, but hDrop is the only one that you can use over and over without swapping out sensors – which means that you can wear it every day without any extra cost or hassle.
Data collected from the hDrop is undeniably interesting (or maybe that’s only true if you’re a sweat geek like me!) and can be useful in providing a starting point for creating a hydration strategy for your next long run or race.
Want to learn more? Read our full review of the hDrop here.
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.
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.
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
Other ways to connect with Amanda
Instagram Daily Fun: RunToTheFinish
Facebook Community Chatter: RunToTheFinish
Sign Up to Receive a Weekly Newsletter with Top Running Tips and Laughs
The post Must Have Fitness Gadgets and Running Tech for Serious Runners appeared first on RunToTheFinish.
from RunToTheFinish https://ift.tt/xPKk3Sy
Post a Comment
Post a Comment