TOP 11 BEST FITNESS GIFTS

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If we were stocking the ultimate gym bag, what fitness gear would be essential? That was the question we asked some of the top fitness experts. After all, they are the ones who test the gear, live the life, and rely on the best-of-the-best for unparalleled results. We tallied their votes, analyzed the options, and created a list of the 23 best fitness gifts. Discover the cutting-edge products and see if there’s anything you need to upgrade your performance.

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Manduka Yoga Mat

The Manduka yoga mat is a longtime favorite of fitness expert Ashley Borden. (ashleyborden.com) And we can see why. The cushioning is superior meaning that wear and tear is minimal even after daily use. The added bonus: It doesn’t slip on any surface, meaning you’ll give out before you mat during your workouts. (Manduka.com)

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Adidas Adipure

Minimalist shoes have become increasingly popular as part of the “barefoot” movement. The Adipure is the first that was designed specifically for the gym to help you promote your body’s natural movement patterns. Give them a try and you’ll be surprised at how much of a difference they make, says LIVESTRONG.COM fitness adviser Martin Rooney. (trainingforwarriors.com)

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Breeze Breaker Jacket by Colosseum

Colosseum’s Breeze running jacket combines the function of high-performance fabric and lots of ventilation, with style and a flattering silhouette, says Ashley Borden. The lightweight jacket has four drawstrings to keep air out, and the waistline visible. And while providing high-end comfort, the price is affordable, with everything in the line costing less than $100. (colosseumbrand.com)

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Valslide

Simple, portable, and amazing, the Valslide is the first piece of equipment that literally can transform your home into a gym without taking up any space. “No matter where I am — gym, hotel or home — the Valslide adds difficulty to my workouts and makes sure I never miss a beat,” says Joe Dowdell, owner of Peak Performance in New York.

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Calorie Tracker - LIVESTRONG.COM

The LIVESTRONG.COM Calorie Tracker can help you reach your diet, weight loss and fitness goals by tracking your daily calories and exercise. Lose weight easily by setting your weight goals and track your calories and progress with our comprehensive online food journal containing more than 1 million food and fitness items. Features include daily calorie and nutrient goals, reminders and social support.Learn more...

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TRX Rip Trainer

The term “functional” training gets thrown around a lot and unfortunately is commonly misused. But if you’re an athlete or find that you only work in one or two planes of motion (that is, you never do any rotational work), the Rip Trainer is for you. The resistance cord allows you to create offset loads, build power and train balance and coordination.

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CamelBak

The CamelBak backpack has a PABA-free water bladder that can carry up to 100 ounces of water, plus it has a bite valve drinking tube and zippered storage for whatever else you need to carry. There are plenty of styles and sizes to choose from to suit your body frame and sport, and ensure that dehydration never slows you down. (camelbak.com)

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SIGG Water Bottle

Forget your typical water bottle. The SIGG bottle is BPA free, and it keeps your water cold significantly better than plastic water bottles, says Craig Ballantyne, owner of Turbulence Training. Plus, it’s better than putting your lips anywhere near the fountain that Coughie McCougherson just drank from.

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Core Bag by Live Well 360

Meet the Core from Live Well 360. It's everything you've ever wanted in a gym bag: vented compartments, a variety of pockets, and enough space to fit your clothes and other gym essentials. Best of all, it’s durable and can handle your frequent trips to the gym.

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Sandbells

Dumbbells and barbells are effective, but sandbags add a new element to your training. The sand shifts within the bag, forcing your muscles — including your core and small stabilizers — to work even harder. And the best part about these sandbells? They’re durable and can be used for everything from deadlifts, to slams, and even presses and throw