Lululemon's We Made Too Much section is always worth a look if you're in the market for new sportswear.

Lululemon doesn't just make yoga clothing, but has a range of comfortable pieces for everything from running to lounging. All made with the signature Lululemon comfort built in.

However, the We Made Too Much section can be difficult to sift through. Sometimes discounts look great when you're browsing, but when you look more closely, there will only be one size left in stock.

With this in mind, I've rounded up the best of the Lululemon sale for you below, and I've made sure all my picks still have plenty of stock.

But hurry, most of it is on final sale and won't be available for long!

Accessories

Women's Tops

Sports bras

Women's bottoms

Men's Tops

Men's bottoms

I’ve tried all sorts of workouts over the years. There was a time when I was doing CrossFit five times a week, another period when I’d do at-home yoga every day courtesy of Yoga With Adriene, and now I’m more into Pilates and low-impact training.

This also means that I’ve tried a lot of activewear for different types of movement, not to mention that I also review it as part of my job.

Unfortunately, more often than not, the most expensive pieces are also the best quality.

However, there's one affordable brand that always delivers on quality and rivals high-end activewear brands: Oner Active.

Founded by personal trainer and entrepreneur Krissy Cela in 2020, Oner Active’s pieces were originally designed with strength training in mind. It’s since expanded to launch collections for running, Pilates and lounging.

Oner Active has just launched its summer sale, with discounts on some of its most popular styles.

I’ve reviewed a wide range of its products over the years, from leggings to sports bras, shorts and loungewear. Below are the pieces I think are worth picking up in the sale.

High-quality hiking apparel is essential if you’re heading for the great outdoors, but it costs. Luckily for us, the REI 4th of July sale is still going strong. But not for much longer!

Until July 7, REI members can get an extra $20 off when they spend $100 or more with code OUT4JUL26. Just remember to add the code at checkout to cash in on the deal.

The sale includes everything in the outlet section, which I've combed through to find the best discounts with the highest stock levels still available.

The following deals start at a whopping 66% off and include favorite brands of every outdoor adventurer, like Patagonia and The North Face, as well as REI's own in-house brand.

Women's

Men's

The four-day Prime Day event is nearly over and the discounts are still rolling in.

But they can't last forever and today is your last opportunity to cash in on these bargains before they disappear.

To make it easier for you, I've scoured the sales and have rounded up 30 of the best deals for under $30.

If your home gym is looking a little tired, now is the time to invest in some new equipment for a fraction of the list price.

Get up to 42% off weights, beginner-friendly Pilates and yoga gear, home gym accessories and post-workout recovery gear below.

• Shop all Kettlebells, dumbbells and weights
• Shop all Pilates and yoga accessories
• Shop home gym accessories
• Shop exercise recovery
• Shop all Amazon Prime Day

Weights

Pilates and Yoga

Accessories

Recovery

Prime Day can feel a little overwhelming at times, especially if you're not sure what to buy.

The Fit&Well team is hard at work throughout the event, looking for the best deals and helping our readers cut through the noise.

With swathes of fake reviews, dishonest pricing and low-quality products out there, it’s difficult to work out whether or not something is worth your hard-earned cash.

With that in mind, here are some items the team has tried, tested and can't stop shouting about. We love them and use them ourselves (sometimes every day).

Our loved ones are probably bored of hearing about them, but these nine products have legitimately improved our lives. Could they improve yours too?

1. Walking pad

Benefits: Improved posture, less backache, improved focus

Walking pads have never been more popular and quite a few models are discounted in the Prime Day Sale.

Fitness writer Elliot Harnell recommends the folding C2 Walking Pad, which helped her to hit at least 8,000 steps a day while working —a remarkable increase of 7,000 a day).

It's foldable, so it will neatly tuck away out of sight when not in use, and it means those hours you sink into your job don't have to be spent being sedentary.

Read more: I've walked 8,000 steps every day for a year using an under desk treadmill—and it's one of the best things I've done for my health

2. Wobble board

Benefits: Improved balance, better coordination

Maddy Biddulph is a certified trainer as well as a regular writer for Fit&Well, and has struggled with balance exercises her whole life, despite using them often with her clients.

After challenging herself to use a wobble board for one month, she improved her balance and noticed that her posture and core strength got better, too.

She went from struggling to stay upright when simply standing on the board to doing single-leg exercises and squats on it in just a month.

Read more: I tried using a wobble board for a month and couldn't believe the results

3. Abs roller

Benefits: Stronger core

I am an ab-wheel convert after using one for a month and seeing a dramatic increase in my core strength.

It offers an effective way to engage your core using just your bodyweight and momentum. If you’re sick of endless crunches, slow progress or a weak core, this is the solution.

Read more: I used an ab roller every day for a month, and my core is stronger than ever

4. Acupressure mat

Benefits: Better sleep, full-body relaxation

This one might look a bit scary, but after just 20-minutes of lying on it, writer Samantha Lewis says, "I've never felt so relaxed."

She used it every day for a week and it became a permanent part of her bedtime routine, leaving her deeply relaxed and ready to sleep after each use.

Read more: I tried an acupressure mat every day for a week—here's what I found

5. Gymproluxe Resistance Band Set

Benefits: lightweight, portable and offers a surprisingly challenging workout

Writer Maddy Bidulph loves the Gymproluxe for outdoor workouts in particular. When she tested the set for 30 days, it quickly became her favorite piece of home workout equipment.

If you lift weights, you might be surprised at what an effective alternative this is. The band tops out at 200lb (90kg) of resistance—lots more than you get out of a traditional resistance band.

Read more: I tried using the Gymproluxe resistance band set for 30 days and it’s my new favorite piece of equipment for home workouts

6. BCAN trampoline

Benefits: improved mental health, great cardio

You can tell by the look on writer Kat Storr’s face that she enjoyed her two weeks testing an adult trampoline.

If you want a low-impact cardio workout, this is highly effective. Storr says in all her years as a trainer, her calves have never burned so much, even when only doing 10 minutes a day.

Read more: I used an adult trampoline for two weeks and it brightened up my winter

7. OPPSDECOR Weights Bench

Benefits: improved posture, unlocks certain exercises and great for exercisers who can’t get up from the floor.

Despite being a personal trainer, writer Maddy Bidulph isn't big on the gym. When she tried this weight bench for 30 days, she realized it was what her home gym setup had been missing.

It gives her a stable surface to exercise on and the option to work out at an incline has improved her posture and helped her access a greater range of motion for her chest presses.

If you don't trust our review (at just $30, there's got to be a catch, right?) Amazon customers rate it a 4.6 out of 5 stars, too.

Read more: I tried using a weights bench for 30 days and it’s the piece of equipment I didn’t know I needed—here’s why

8. GORUCK Weighted Vest

Benefit: increases exercise intensity.

When Maddy Bidulph wore a weighted vest for a month, she wasn't expecting it to be quite such an intense experience, particularly when running.

She used it to add extra challenge to HIIT workouts, level up bodyweight exercises, and wore it around the house, on walks and on runs to burn extra calories.

Read more: I tried wearing a weighted vest for a month—here’s why I recommend it

9. Bosu ball

Benefits: great for core workouts, challenges balance and stability.

Fitness editor and certified personal trainer Yanar Alkayat had a Bosu ball languishing under her couch for years until a back injury gave her a reason to pull it out. Now it's her go-to for core workouts.

The instability of the ball challenges the deep core muscles you use for balance. You can also use it to add height and support to several other exercises.

Read more: I’ve finally started using this underrated piece of kit and it’s transformed my core workouts

Pilates is a mat-based workout that you can do without any equipment. But as someone who has been practicing this type of workout for years, adding some apparatus to my at-home routines really leveled things up.

It not only keeps things interesting, as it means you can do a wider variety of exercises, but Pilates equipment can also make your workouts more challenging and help you progress more quickly.

On the other hand, some Pilates gear will help you modify movements, which means it's a worthwhile investment for beginners looking to ease themselves into working out.

If you want to get started with Pilates workouts or you’re looking to upgrade your existing practice, you’re in luck because there’s a range of equipment on sale for Amazon Prime Day.

I’ve picked some products below based on the types of equipment I actually use during my at-home workouts.

The best Pilates deals this Amazon Prime Day

I am a long-time Adidas fan. I was ecstatic when my parents bought me my first (of many) Gazelle trainers in the ’90s, and soon after I added the legendary Firebird track pants to my collection as well as the zip-up Firebird track jacket.

Now I’m a personal trainer, I wear the brand’s activewear for actual exercise, and I rate it now as much as I did then.

Given the quality of its pieces, I couldn’t believe some of the discounts I found in the Amazon Prime Day sale. There’s a skort with a huge 77% off. Some of the best sports leggings I’ve ever tested—high-waisted, tight enough to keep everything smooth and streamlined, and squat-proof, too—are 48% off.

Plus, a classic retro track jacket is 36% off, and trainers with a platform sole and a gorgeous metallic rose-gold finish are 27% off.

Amazon Prime Day is here again and there are some truly eye-catching deals to be found if you know where to look.

We know you don't have the time to scroll through every single discount, so we've put Fit&Well's expert deal hunters on the case for you.

We've just found our first gem: this Under Armour gym shoe is down to $26.99 from $90. That's a whopping 70% off!

I don't usually expect to see deals this good so early on in the event, and I'd wager this will sell out fast.

With a 4.7 out of 5 star rating, customers love it. It even has 83% of reviewers giving it the full complement of five stars.

They are part of the Under Armour Project Rock range (endorsed by everyone's favorite rock, Dwayne Johnson) and perfect for gym workouts, high-intensity interval training and more.

Amazon buyers love that they are lightweight, breathable and comfortable enough to wear all day if you want to.

You won't have to change your shoes as you change activity: you can go from running to walking or cycling and lifting seamlessly thanks to the versatile design.

They are stable enough to deadlift in and grippy enough to take on a slippery squash court.

Despite being designed for athletic endeavours, reviewers mention that the shoe is comfortable enough to wear to work (in a hospital, no less) and durable enough to keep up with an active teenager.

"Didn’t even need breaking in," says one happy customer. "Just straight from box to chaos."

If that isn't enough to convince you, there are free returns too, so if you hate them, Amazon has you covered.

• View all Amazon Prime Day for health and fitness discounts and much more
• Check out Walmart's summer sale with up to 50% off
• Best Buy exercise equipment deals are not to be missed
• Target have 40% off walking pads in a members-only circle deal

Prime Day has come not a moment too soon, with some fantastic Prime Day walking sandals deals.

Summer hikes can get uncomfortable, particularly if you're wearing heavy boots, so it's important to get the right footwear for the job.

I test sandals for my best walking shoe guide and my current top pick, the Keen Hyperport H2, is discounted by up to 29%.

Not only is the Hyperport comfortable and supportive, but it also works as a water shoe.

If you're walking on the beach or along a waterway, you don't need to worry about taking your shoes off to carry them. With the Hyperport, you can stroll right in.

They dry off remarkably quickly and the enclosed toe and high sides keep your feet safe from spiky rocks uneven terrain.

• View all Amazon Prime Day for health and fitness discounts and much more
• Check out Walmart's summer sale with up to 50% off
• Best Buy exercise equipment deals are not to be missed
• Target have 40% off walking pads in a members-only circle deal

More prime day sandals deals

Here are some more Prime Day picks, featuring the Columbia Konos 2 Strap, which I’m currently testing and may replace the Keen Hyperport in the guide as my favorite sandal.

On my 31st birthday, my partner took me to an amusement arcade for the first time in my life.

Arcades have never appealed to me, but I surprised myself and had great fun.

Not only that, I left dripping with sweat, having done an accidental cardio workout playing whack-a-mole.

It turns out I am very motivated by gamification and this has changed the way I approach fitness, too.

This Amazon Prime Day (officially starting tomorrow), I have been on the lookout for discounts on fun ways to train.

I've found some great options, all inspired by arcade games.

If, like me, you need an element of novelty to really lock in for a workout, the below Prime Day deals might be perfect for you.

The three iconic Adidas stripes are probably one of the most recognisable bits of branding of the modern era.

You may think that sporting those stripes is out of the question on a tight budget, but you'd be surprised.

You can get some great Adidas workout essentials for affordable prices and up to 50% off some great finds in the summer kickoff sales event.

To prove my point, I set myself the challenge of finding 36 items for $36 or less and am pleased to say I suceeded.

Of the 36 items below, the most expensive is $33. But hurry, stock is flying off the shelves and these prices won't last forever.

Men's

Women's tops

Women's shorts

Women's leggings

Backcountry should be your destination for discounts this Memorial Day weekend, with a wide range of items already reduced.

It's not just for Memorial Day either; you can currently get an extra 20% off clearance items, but only until midnight on May 23.

If you want high-end brand names for less, or are looking to invest in some durable outdoor wear, look no further. I've rounded up the biggest discounts with the best stock levels for you below.

Remember, this may be your last chance to buy many of these products, as a lot of the best deals are in the clearance section.

Women's

Men's

Accessories

The Gymshark slogan may be "We Do Gym," but they do quite a lot else besides. A huge range of sportswear and comfy recovery clothing, with some cute statement items for whatever you're doing in between

Gymshark regularly runs last-chance sales with discounts on bestsellers in limited-edition colorways and clearance items about to disappear forever (which can mean some items are non-returnable).

I've dug through the sale section and pulled out the best discounts with three or more sizes still in stock.

Whether you're a Pilates princess/prince or a muscle mommy/daddy, there's sure to be something in the collection below to catch your eye.

Remember, this is your last chance to buy many of these products!

There are 56 items in this collection, so I've split them into sections to make it easier for you to find what you're looking for.

I've also arranged each section from largest discount to smallest, so the best deals are always at the top.

Jump to:

• Accessories
• Sports bras
• Women's tops
• Women's bottoms
• Women's leggings
• Men's tops
• Men's bottoms

Accessories

Sports bras

Women's tops

Women's bottoms

Women's leggings

Men's tops

Men's bottoms

If you’re in need of a fresh set of outerwear or hike-friendly clothing, but have been put off by some of the high price tags, I have some great news for you: the REI Spring Sale is underway.

Of course, you want sturdy, well-made clothes on the trail, but the cost can be prohibitive if you’re on a budget.

Admittedly, trail wear is an investment and not the sort of thing you expect to buy every year, but the cost can still be eye-watering. Jackets and outerwear, in particular, can set you back hundreds of dollars.

Thankfully, sales are a great time to get these high-quality items for a fraction of the price.

I've scoured the sale section and pulled together the best deals with the highest stock levels.

Get at least 50% off brands like Patagonia, Sweaty Betty and Mountain Hardwear before these deals are gone!

Women's

Men's

The best pull-up bars are a great piece of exercise kit to have at home. Doorway-mounted models don't take up much space, and some can even be left in place without causing any issues.

As far as exercises that hit all kinds of useful muscles in the upper body go, the pull-up is hard to beat. While they can be tough to perform at first, the technique itself is easy.

Even the most basic pull-up bars also give you access to a range of other exercises. Chin-ups, leg and knee raises, and dead hangs are all brilliant for muscle-building, mobility, and grip strength.

In this guide, we've looked at a range of different options. Most of the best pull-up bars available these days are doorframe-mounted as they're simple to fit and remove, and don't require you to drill into your woodwork, but we've also picked out a telescopic model and a freestanding option.

Best pull-up bar overall

The DMoose Dooway Pull-Up Bar is a very robust piece of kit. It's well-made and feels rock solid when in use – unlike some cheaper doorway-mounted models which can flex.

There are four hand positions so you can work on your lats, back, and chest from different positions. We hung gymnastic rings from the bar which worked well, and there's an eyelet designed for attaching 'sling trainers' (such as the TRX) for even more workout options.

Silicone pads are fitted to the areas that come in contact with door frame woodwork to guard against marks. They also help keep the bar locked in place.

It's easy to remove and refit the bar from the doorframe and there's no need for any drilling. The only downsides are that the DMoose bar is quite chunky, so it's not the easiest to store. It also requires a fair bit of assembly out of the box before you can use it.

Best budget pull-up bar

If you're after a doorway hook pull-up bar but want to keep the cost down, this Ally Peaks model is a great option.

As you'd expect from a budget-conscious option, it does require a fair bit of assembly out of the box. But once built, you have a versatile piece of training equipment that's easy to fit and remove from your doorway.

Like most doorway models, the Ally Peaks pull-up bar hooks on to the top of the frame inside your doorway, with another bar that presses against the outside to hold it in place. There's a little flex when working out vigorously, but the unit itself stays firmly in place.

Three grip positions enable you to vary your pull-ups and chin-ups. You can also use the bar for performing push-ups and dips on the floor. Ally Peaks also offer options that come with resistance bands and handles enabling you to do seated rows too.

Best telescopic pull-up bar

The advantages of a telescopic pull-up bar are that it doesn't need to be removed to close the door, and it's easy to store should you decide to take it down.

Sportneer's Pull-Up Bar is a great option. To fit, loosen the locking rings at either end and rotate the central section to extend the telescopic end sections into place. Use the built-in spirit level at either end to get the bar straight, check the rotatable central section is tight, do up the lockrings, and you're all set.

There's zero flex in this bar and, unlike doorway hook models, you have a wide area in which to play your hands for grip positions that suit you best. You also have the option of fitting the door at different heights, enabling you to expand its use beyond pull-ups.

Maximum load is 440lb / 200kg, but this is only when the bar is minimally extended, and the load limit drops significantly to 165lb / 75kg at full extension. Be sure to measure your doorway and check the weight limit for your door width (see the chart on Amazon) before you buy.

Best foldable pull-up bar

Kakiclay produces three different pull-up bars, but this foldable one is a great option as it folds flat for storage when not in use. It hooks into place above a door frame and provides a solid base for pull-ups and chin-ups.

Padded grips enable users to train on the bar using three different hand positions. Also supplied are a pair of suspension straps with handles. Attaching the straps to the bar gives you access to even more pulling and pushing exercises – rows, push-ups and more.

Like most hook-style bars, the Kakiclay model can also be used on the floor for enhanced push-ups, dips and other exercises.

Some reviewers reported that the Kakiclay bars damaged their door frames, so the latest versions come with protective silicone pads on the areas that come in contact with the frame.

Best freestanding pull-up station

Sportsroyals' Power Tower is a well-regarded option for doing all kinds of exercises as well as pull-ups. With a footprint of 41.2in (104.6cm) by 39.7in (96.2cm), it's the kind of pull-up station likely better suited to a garage or dedicated home gym, than a living room.

The pull-up bar height is adjustable and is designed to suit users from 4ft 8in to 6ft 6in tall. In addition to pull-ups, the Power Tower is ideal for doing dips, while forearm pads and a back pad with an adjustable position also mean it's great for leg raises too – a brilliant exercise for hitting your core.

As well as needing a fair bit of space, the Sportsroyals Power Tower also needs to be assembled before use. The process is straightforward if you're familiar with such things, but can take a bit of time.

Frequently asked questions

It's your last chance to buy some of these fantastic Lululemon finds in the We Made Too Much section.

Lululemon is world-famous for its comfortable sportswear and loungewear, which is perfect for everything from yoga to running.

When Lululemon makes too many of an item, it reduces prices to clear overstock, making this area of the website a great place to shop to get more for your money.

Here, I’ve rounded up the best items with good stock levels below.

Women's

Men's

Accessories

Amazon's Big Spring Sale is here and it’s a great opportunity to start, or add to, your home gym for less.

Amazon has huge discounts on everything from big-ticket cardio equipment (look at this Nordictrak treadmill, now $120 off) to more modestly priced items (like this CAP weighted vest, now reduced by 56%).

Keep reading to see my top picks in the Amazon spring sale.

Quick Links

• View everything in the Amazon Big Spring Sale
• Jump to fitness tracker deals
• Adjustable weights for up to $111 less
• Jump to home cardio machines (treadmills, exercise bikes, rowers)
• Get up to 44% off dumbbells
• Jump to kettlebell deals
• Home gym kit—gym flooring, workout benches, resistance bands, ab wheels and more
• Get discounted Pilates and yoga equipment

Fitness trackers

Home cardio equipment

Adjustable weights

Dumbbells

Kettlebells

More home gym kit

Yoga and Pilates

Amazon's Big Spring Sale starts on March 25, but discounts are already going live on some of my favorite products.

I’ve rounded up some of the best items I have tested over the past few years, or looked for suitable alternatives where this wasn't possible.

All of my picks are products I either use myself or that people I work with rate highly.

For in-depth product reviews, you can browse our collection of buying guides, where we've tested everything from ab rollers to yoga mats, and walking shoes to water bottles.

Keep reading to see the best early Amazon Spring Sale deals.

Top shoe deals

I’m serious about comfort. Whether I’m in the gym or loafing around the house, I want to feel cozy enough to drift off to sleep at all times.

Since living in pyjamas is frowned upon, I wear Gymshark clothing instead.

Known for its matching leggings and crop top sets, it also makes exceptionally comfy joggers (I’m wearing a pair as I write this) and accessories.

Gymshark leggings have a hard-earned reputation for being squat-proof (so the material doesn’t become see-through when it stretches mid-squat) and having well-designed, wide waistbands made with soft, moisture-wicking fabrics.

They cinch you in at the waist, without digging into your skin or getting caught in rolls or folds and allow you to complete your workout without having to worry about an errant wedgie or sweat mark.

I also love that Gymshark regularly runs last-chance sales with discounts on bestsellers in limited-edition colorways and clearance items about to disappear forever.

I've dug through the virtual shelves and identified the best discounts with the best stock levels.

Some deals are exclusive to the featured colorway and others aren’t, so make sure you flick through the options to see if there’s a discount on a design you might prefer.

Remember, this is your last chance to buy many of these products!

Leggings

Tops

Shorts

Pants

Accessories

Singlets

Jumping on trampolines might usually be associated with children, but the many health benefits are also making it a popular option among fitness-conscious adults—just check social media for the trending, high-energy rebounding workout classes.

And those taking part might be on to something. The exercise isn’t just a fun way to mix up your workouts, it’s great for improving stamina, muscle tone, bone mass, bone density, blood circulation and may well aid in lymphatic drainage.

“Jumping challenges the body in ways that many traditional exercises do not,” says Melissa Leach, a yoga instructor and strength and conditioning coach at Yoga-Go.

“The impact created when we jump stimulates bone growth, which is essential for maintaining bone density as we age.

“At the same time, it strengthens muscles, particularly the fast-twitch fibers—responsible for power, balance and quick reactions—helping prevent the loss of muscle mass that naturally occurs from the age of 30.”

I’m 41 years old now, so I know that I need to be doing both high and low-impact sports to help protect my bones from osteoporosis as I head into perimenopause.

I’ve been doing Pilates, running and strength training for a few years now, but trampolining wasn’t really on my radar until I ended up with a small fracture in my ankle.

This injury means I’ve not been able to go running, or do many other high-impact exercises, but I was cleared to do low-impact activity, so when I was offered a trial of a BCAN rebounder trampoline, I jumped at the chance to see what all the hype is about.

I committed to using it every day for two weeks—here’s what happened.

It was a wobbly start

While I knew jumping on the trampoline would be challenging for my body, I didn’t expect it to be so mentally tough.

For the first few days I was worried about falling off, jumping too high, or the trampoline inexplicably collapsing underneath me.

All very irrational fears, but I’d not been on a trampoline this size since I was very young, and a fair bit lighter.

During the first few days, I found even bouncing for a few minutes was exhausting, and my legs felt very strange when I got off and stood on stable ground again.

But these issues eased as I became more confident and started to be a bit braver with how high and fast I jumped.

My lower legs were burning

I do a lot of weight-bearing exercise, but I don’t think I’ve ever done anything else that makes my calves burn as much as trampolining.

In the first week, I was only doing a maximum of 10 minutes a day, but this was enough for my lower legs to feel really fatigued. The bouncing was also having a noticeable effect on my glutes and quads.

I mixed up the types of bouncing that I did, to see the different ways it affected my muscles. I tried doing squat jumps to work my quads harder, and then tried tuck jumps, which engaged my glutes and core more.

It’s a great cardio workout

I’ve really missed the cardio benefits of running while I’ve been recovering from my injured ankle, so it was nice to feel my heart pumping while I was jumping.

In the second week, I increased my daily trampoline time to 15 minutes and this was enough to get me very hot and sweaty. Loud and motivating tunes meant that the 15 minutes passed surprisingly quickly.

My pelvic floor is stronger than I thought

When I told friends about my trampolining, many were concerned for my pelvic floor and asked about potential leakages.

However, I was pleasantly surprised, it seems doing my two Pilates classes a week has strengthened my pelvic floor more than I’d realised—I didn’t feel any vulnerability when bouncing. I think it just made it even stronger.

Obviously, if you have any issues in this area, you should seek advice from a professional before trampolining.

You can do more than just jump

I’ve seen videos of people doing trampoline workout classes—and while it would take me a long time to get to their standard, they showed that you can do more than just jump.

You can jog (carefully) on a trampoline, you can hop on one leg for an extra thigh burn, and personally, I enjoyed using hand weights to do biceps curls while jumping.

These modifications stopped me from getting bored as the two weeks progressed, but also gave me more of a full-body workout. Other options, if you want to really feel the burn, could be to add wearable wrist or ankle weights—or both.

It made me happy

It’s been a wet and grey winter, so having a fun piece of equipment to take away my stress and keep me positive has been really useful.

Jumping releases mood-boosting endorphins and I couldn’t help but smile when I was doing it, even through the burn in my calves and quads. My family thought I was a bit mad, but that just made me bounce even higher!

I rarely find a piece of equipment that changes the way I work out.

I’m very loyal to my favorites—kettlebells and my ab wheel—so when something makes it into my routine, I want to shout about it.

I was sent the Bellabooty band at the turn of the year but only started using it recently. I regret every workout I did without it.

For glute bridges in particular, which I used to do with a kettlebell uncomfortably loaded on my pelvis, it’s been a game-changer.

What’s more, it's now reduced by 20% on Amazon, a rare dip in price according to online price trackers.

Initially, I just used the band as a pad to protect my hip bones for kettlebell hip thrusts. This alleviated some of the discomfort, but it isn’t strictly how the band is intended to be used.

It’s primarily used to to attach equal weights to each side, with the band making hip thrusts more comfortable.

The strap is high quality and the velcro is secure, so you don't have to worry about dropping anything. Plus, the material is easy to wipe clean and it's compact enough to throw in your gym bag and take with you.

That’s not all it can do, though. It can be used as a padded shoulder yoke for weighted squats, so you’re not limited by how long you can hold dumbbells in a front rack position for.

If you own very heavy dumbbells, it can also be used to hold your feet while you perform sit-ups.

I’ll admit it. Before the holidays, I was stuck in an exercise rut, doing the exact opposite of what I tell my personal training clients to do—sticking to one type of exercise.

And while I love strength training and it’s really helping with my perimenopause symptoms (and sanity), I’d neglected cardio workouts, which are equally important for immunity, heart health and reducing my risk of chronic diseases.

It was this realisation and an impending cycling holiday in the mountains of Gran Canaria that led me to take the opportunity to test the Zwift Ride with Wahoo Kickr Core 2 ($1,299), a smart indoor bike frame paired with a turbo trainer that connects to the Zwift app (explained below, but it’s less complicated than it sounds).

Trying out the indoor smart bike for a month really helped get me out of my workout slump, and jump-started an unexpected love of cardio. Here’s what else I discovered.

It’s a beautiful machine

The Zwift Ride is a gorgeous-looking bike, with a racer-style seat and drop handlebars. It’s lightweight, sleek, quiet and feels as close to a real-life riding experience as you can get indoors. It’s definitely one of the more stylish smart bikes I’ve tried in my time as a fitness writer.

It’s a wheelless bike that you pair with the Wahoo’s Kickr Core 2 smart trainer and all you need to get started is a nearby power source and Bluetooth connectivity.

It comes with a basic accessories holder, but if you want to use the Zwift app on your tablet (recommended because there’s so much data on the screen) then you’ll need to pay extra for a media stand. I also swapped the standard pedals for clip-in cleat ones so I had a smoother pedal stroke and more consistent push-pull power on the bike.

The Zwift app is excellent, if a little oversaturated

The Zwift app basically gamifies cycling, allowing you to win rewards for your rides and workouts, and participate in challenges, live events and 24/7 group rides (including women-only rides), as well as cycle some of the most picturesque routes around the world.

You can also choose individuals to ride with or race against, so it’s a great option for those who are more motivated to exercise with others and like a sense of community. There’s a free 30-day trial period, then it’s $19.99 a month or $199.99 a year.

Speaking as a Zwift beginner, I found that there’s almost too much choice and the data on the screen can feel a little busy. I recommend you use a tablet rather than a smartphone with the app so you can see everything properly. There’s too much going on for a small screen, frankly.

I enjoyed being able to choose different cities to ride through—especially London, where I used to live—although the graphics can feel slightly dated at times. The motivational phrases that pop up on the screen during a workout helped at times when I was flagging. Plus, the lighted arches on-screen that buzz as you cycle under them, signalling a change in rpm (how quickly to pedal), helped me hang on and push through to get to the next stage of the ride.

You can also create your own avatar, personalising your look and bike if you enjoy that kind of thing. You can spend your rewards on virtual kit for your ride, such as new wheels, glasses or shoes.

It helped me get fit enough for my first cycling holiday

I live in Oxford, UK, where people cycle everywhere. I’m used to being on my bike, and cycling to school with my two daughters is the norm, but I am a complete newbie with hill and road rides of any length. So with an impending trip to the winding mountains of Gran Canaria, I had some serious training to do.

Thankfully, the Zwift Ride delivered—helping me to kickstart a new love of cardio and improving my fitness levels enough to enjoy the holiday and come back in one piece.

I really appreciated the electromagnetic resistance that automatically changes during workouts. It takes the stress and thinking out of your rides, and the choice of routes, challenges and training plans are varied and fun. This helped me to slowly but surely build up my stamina and cardiovascular fitness without getting bored.

On days I was short on time, the selection of 30 minute workouts like Calorie Crush and Wave Rider helped me work up a sweat, while the longer endurance rides, including the 90-minute Mishmash provided a decent challenge on weekends. You’ll definitely need some padded cycling shorts like this training bib one from Maap for those longer rides, though.

Zwift Ride with Wahoo Kickr Core 2 explained

Zwift is first and foremost a virtual cycling app, beloved by road bike enthusiasts, who often access the app by taking the rear wheel off their road bike and connecting it to a smart turbo trainer.

Zwift Ride is a frame that’s designed like a road bike, but connects easily to both the Zwift app and a turbo trainer, in my case, the Wahoo Kickr Core 2 that the Zwift Ride came bundled with.

If that all sounds a bit complicated, it’s because you can make it very complicated if you like, but the beauty of the Zwift Ride package I tried is that you don’t really need to bother yourself with any of that.

Here’s more about Zwift Ride from the brand.

Whenever I get the chance, I love taking my personal training clients outdoors for their workout sessions, it can be fun and also so-called green exercise is known for improving mental health and mood, as well as reducing stress and anxiety.

But while my customers are getting their heart rates and body temperatures up—even in the winter months—I’m standing still next to them getting colder. Luckily, I’ve become well-versed in combatting the chill, building up a decent cold-weather wardrobe that’s packed with athleisure items.

Want to stay snug, too? Here’s a pick of my favorite cold-weather activewear brands to get you through the winter months.

For all your walking, running and gym needs, the Soundpeats Pop Clip is an incredibly secure clip-on earbud that does it all.

With physical buttons, you won't find yourself grazing touch-sensitive controls when you're lifting things over your head and you'll find it very hard to jiggle them loose from your ears by running or jumping.

Plus, they're super comfortable.

If you're an Amazon Prime customer, you can get the Pop Clip in black for 50% off ($20), or a purple set is now $14.99with very limited stock remaining.

You can read my Soundpeats Pop Clip review to find out why I rate them so highly, or read on to buy your pair now.

I test lots of walking shoes for Fit&Well, and to pass the time I like to listen to music, audiobooks and sometimes bother my family with a call.

My dog tends to come along with me, so I need to be aware of my surroundings to keep us both safe, but putting my phone on speaker in public is antisocial at best.

Thankfully, I can have the best of both worlds with the Pop Clip.

They aren't noise-cancelling, so I can hear traffic and respond to potential dangers, but the design helps reduce annoying sounds like wind that might prevent me from fully enjoying what I’m listening to.

The battery lasts for longer than I've ever been able to walk on a full charge, and the case holds a charge for even longer.

Have you ever wondered if there was a way to make things quieter, without blocking sound out entirely?

I tested the Loop Switch 2 recently, and these handy earplugs do just that.

With three levels of sound filtration, they really help when I'm finding the world loud and overstimulating, or if I need to focus on something without getting distracted.

What's more, the Switch 2 hasn't gone back up in price yet and still enjoys the 20% Black Friday discount it had at the end of November.

The Loop Switch 2 stepped in and solved a problem I've had for years: when I need to focus but don't want to blast music to drown everything out, what do I do?

I put in my Loops.

They're great when I need to focus on work and can make usually overstimulating environments like the pub on a busy day, or even the supermarket, more manageable.

You can switch between modes with the flick of a fingertip, helping you filter out most sound to focus on a conversation if there's a lot of background noise or drown out the annoying whine of the washing machine when you're trying to work.

They're also perfect for the festive season, where noisy family commitments, work parties, or rowdy atmospheres may get a little much.

The Hoka Transport is one of the best walking shoes I've ever tested.

It's ideal for walking, running and commuting to the office, thanks to its grippy sole, cushioned mid-section and paired-back style.

It can truly handle anything you throw at it, including trail walks, runs in the park and a day wandering around a city.

Cyber Monday sees the lowest price I've seen on the Transport in a while: down to $105 at Hoka in some sizes.

If you have any issues with fine motor skills, the Hoka Transport was made with you in mind.

The shoe comes with the option of a toggle fastening, as well as standard laces, which make them super easy to get on and off.

They're a great dog-walking shoe, being water-resistant and sturdy enough to take you off-road.

They have a medium level of cushioning, which means they don't feel quite as pillow-y as something like the Brooks Glycerin or Hoka Clifton, but there's still enough support to prevent foot fatigue.

Plus, they're subtle enough to style with your normal clothes or work wardrobe.

Hello and welcome to our live blog of Cyber Monday fitness deals, a last chance to get your hands on equipment that will genuinely make a difference to your wellbeing.

I’m the editor of Fit&Well, and I couldn’t help but marvel at how out-of-date the phrase “Cyber Monday” sounds when we’re all walking around with powerful computers in our pockets.

According to internet lore, the term was coined in 2005 because people waited until they returned to work after Thanksgiving to shop online using their company’s superior connection speeds.

Whether you’re shopping on company time or trying to find a bargain late into the evening, I hope the results of my and my team’s hard work over the weekend will point you in the direction of some life-changing purchases.

Already we’re seeing extra reductions on recommended deals, such as Columbia walking shoes for $42 and $50 off this-season’s Skechers.

Retailer Cyber Monday fitness sales

• Amazon: up to 55% off walking pads and more
• Walmart: thousands off home gyms
• Dicks’: up to 50% off
• Target: 46% off Apple Airpods 4

Brand Cyber Monday sales

• Bowflex: up to $600 off
• Gymshark: up to 50% off our favorite gymwear, plus an extra 25% off for Cyber Monday
• Lululemon: includes reductions on the iconic Align leggings
• Alo Yoga: 30% off sitewide with free membership
• Pvolve: 20% off the Jennifer Aniston–fronted fitness app
• BetterMe: up to 50% off Pilates equipment and workout wear
• Whoop: save up to $70
• NordicTrack: up to $1,300 off smart home cardio machines
• Peloton: up to $1,550 off treadmills

Shoes

Weights

Fitness trackers

Pilates

Live coverage

Extra 25% off at Gymshark with Cyber Monday code with EXTRA25

Well done if you’ve held your nerve—Gymshark has rewarded your patience with an extra 25% off for Cyber Monday. Just add the code EXTRA25 at checkout—code expires 10pm PST December 1, 2025. Here are six fits to start you off, or check out the entire Gymshark Cyber Monday sale.

Another better than Black Friday offer—Nutribullet Flex down to $42.99

I’ve spotted another Cyber Monday deal that beats what was on offer for Black Friday. The convenient, portable, battery-powered Nutribullet Flex was reduced by 29% to $49.99, but the gunmetal grey colorway has dropped down to $42.49, just shy of 40% off.

My colleague Lou Mudge just tested the blender and was won over, with the Flex becoming the favorite of the many blenders she owns.

Three things to buy if you want to sleep better

When I’ve had trouble sleeping, I would have paid any amount of money to resolve it. There are plenty of free things to try first—for instance a body scan meditation, breathing exercises or gentle yoga poses—but in the past year, three writers have found their way to better rest with different sleep aids, and all three are enjoying Cyber Monday reductions.

This training shoe can do it all and it's less than $60

This simple sneaker tops our list of the best cross-training shoes, thanks to its price and versatility.

According to NASM-trainer and reviewer Jennifer Rizzuto, it's got ample cushioning to feel comfortable for walks and very short runs, but it still feels stable enough for fast HIIT sessions and dumbbell workouts.

Plus, its simple, streamlined aesthetic means it works well with casual outfits, too.

It usually retails at $80 but you can get 30% off site-wide on Under Armour at the moment, which brings the price down to $56.

There's free shipping available, as well!

The watch that helped my finally run 5k in under 30 minutes is at its lowest-ever price

I've been trying to run a 5k in under 30 minutes since 2020 and I finally managed it at the end of last year thanks to the coaching on the Coros Pace 3.

There isn't a huge discount available on the watch (Coros rarely discounts its items heavily) but this is the cheapest it will drop to.

Wearing the watch for several months taught me all about pacing, recovery and how drastically sleep and illness can impact performance.

My partner nabbed the watch immediately once I got an Apple Watch to test, but I very much intend on getting it back when I want to start working on my 10km run times.

Joslyn Thompson Rule has been a personal trainer for more than 15 years, so she’s used her fair share of weights in that time.

While she believes dumbbells and barbells have their place in any exercise routine, she says kettlebells bring something unique to the table.

“Kettlebells offer you a versatility that dumbbells don’t,” she says. “The shape of the bell challenges you [to move] in new ways—so you have to be a little bit more connected to the bell as you’re using it.”

I’ve been keen to add more kettlebell work into my training since speaking with trainer Steve Stonehouse, who told me that the kettlebell swing is one of the best moves for longevity.

So, I asked Thompson Rule for her advice on buying kettlebells and which weights to invest in. Here’s what she recommends.

Buy two or three different weights

Thompson Rule leads a series of kettlebell classes on the Peloton app. She says her routines often require three different weights: something light, something mid-range, and something heavy.

“For a beginner, I might suggest something like a 4kg, 8kg, and 12kg bell,” she says, which is roughly a 9lb, 18lb and 26lb spread.

Opt for a traditional shape

“Some companies have tried to get really creative with the shape of the bell, but how they were originally shaped is the best way,” says Thompson Rule.

Look for a kettlebell with a round-shaped weight, a flat bottom and a rounded handle.

Avoid kettlebells with sharp corners or unusual handles, as they can make exercises like the clean or snatch harder to do and more uncomfortable.

Stick to solid materials

You can buy a sandbag kettlebell, which can be handy to save space or to adjust the weight, but it might not be as durable as traditional ones made from metal.

If you want something that really lasts, Thompson Rule suggests going for cast-iron.

Protect your wrist with padding

If you’re new to kettlebell training, you’ll inevitably bash your wrists as you learn how to do certain kettlebell moves.

“Even if you’re just doing an overhead press with straight wrists—which is how you should do it—there is a level of pressure on your forearm and wrist from the bell,” says Thompson Rule.

The trainer often ties a bandana around her wrist to give it some cushioning, but you can wear sweat bands, which can work just as well as added wrist protection. Wrist guards are also available.

Quick shopping links

• Shop kettlebells on Amazon
• Browse kettlebells on Walmart
• See kettlebells at Target
• Check out kettlebells at Dick’s Sporting Goods

Kettlebell Black Friday deals

For a long while, I was positively against the idea of wearing a watch to track my running.

Running, for me, was an escape (in the nicest way possible!) from my five-year-old, where I could immerse myself in nature, and listen to the sounds of birds wading in the river or cooing in a tree.

But then I decided to sign up for a 5K race. And then a 10K.

And, as lovely as it was, the therapeutic sound of nature didn't improve my speed or stop me from hyperventilating when I’d completely overshot my pace or distance.

Then my editor suggested I try the Garmin Run Coach on the Garmin Forerunner 165, and it’s fair to say I’m rather taken by it.

I'm now too stats-obsessed to go back to ever being Garmin-free.

Black Friday Garmin Forerunner 165 deal

To get started, I typed in the distance I wanted to run, my goal time and how often I could run into Garmin Run Coach, and it set out daily workout suggestions, from interval training to hill repeats.

I loved that it took the planning off my plate and just told me what to do!

Wearing the Garmin Forerunner 165 has not only improved my running speed and output, but also affected my awareness of my overall health, too, as it shows trends in my heart rate and cardio fitness.

I’m even sleeping better, thanks to my Garmin. Each morning, my watch helpfully gives me a low-down of my health stats, including my sleep score, and recommends how many hours’ sleep I should aim to get that evening to improve my body battery.

So, rather than resisting going to bed each evening as I typically do in a bid to maximise my kid-free time, I’ve been taking my Garmin’s advice and getting to bed earlier—and feeling all the better for it.

The best thing about this Garmin is that it’s simple to use.

The touchscreen is intuitive, whether flicking through your morning stats report, scrolling through a training plan or saving an activity.

There are only five buttons on the device (some models have even fewer) but it was never difficult to navigate. I found myself scrolling through the different settings without having to glance at a manual.

I really enjoy using the connected Garmin app on my phone too—everything syncs seamlessly from the watch, and means I can get really nerdy and explore my stats in detail.

It comes in a nice selection of colourways (I opted for teal) and the strap is super comfy to wear, although I do have to loosen it at night.

Overall, it’s a great entry-level watch and has converted me from a non-wearable runner to a devout Garmin wearer.

I’ve tried a lot of stationary exercise bikes in my time as a fitness writer, but I can safely say the Wattbike Proton is my favorite.

And now you can get your hands on the Wattbike Proton with $450 off in the Black Friday sale—down to $1,845 from $2,295 (excluding shipping). This price includes a free subscription to Hub+, the premium version of the accompanying app, worth $80.

I was lucky enough to test this smart bike out for 30 days and it’s surprisingly addictive. I’ve been using it every day without fail and it’s become my new way to de-stress.

I got into a routine of getting on the bike every night before dinner and not only did it give me a much-needed energy boost, it felt good to spin the legs and the day’s stresses away. Here’s what else I discovered.

It’s really compact

As well as a writer, I’m an independent personal trainer and my kitchen-living room is overflowing with fitness equipment, so I was pleasantly surprised that the Wattbike Proton was much smaller than I expected—just 57cm x 102cm.

At 48kg, it’s quite heavy to move, so I’d recommend setting it up next to an outlet. It does have rollers to help you move it, however.

It’s family-friendly

It’s simple to adjust (something I had to do a lot because my two daughters were obsessed with it!) and the magnetic resistance results in a smooth and quiet ride—ideal if you want to do a workout early morning or late at night when the kids are asleep.

The Proton automatically adjusts the resistance, too, so you don’t need to worry about changing it (unless you want to) and you can just concentrate on pedalling.

The app is free—no monthly fees for once!

Fans of Peloton might bemoan the lack of inbuilt screen and instructor-led classes, but one thing I loved about the bike is that you don’t have to pay for the excellent Wattbike Hub app.

There is a subscription option if you want to unlock premium features like personalized workouts, but honestly, you don’t need to.

I worked my way through multiple workouts—from HIIT, endurance, speed, aerobic all-rounders and climbs—and I still had plenty of classes to try. There are even workouts designed to improve your running performance.

And in just 30 days I felt like my cycling ability had improved. Cycling felt easier, especially riding the heavy longtail cargo bike I cart the kids around on.

You can also connect it to many of the popular cycling apps, including Zwift and Rouvy, and it will sync happily with Apple Health and Strava.

The data helps you stay motivated

When I first started using the bike, the amount of stats on the app was a little overwhelming. But as I got the hang of things I found them really motivating, and enjoyed the traffic light system that indicated when I was hitting my targets for both power output and cadence.

I’m still a little baffled by the PES (Pedalling Effectiveness Score) system, which gives a visual depiction of how well you are pedalling. Not very well in my case. My left leg was always pushing harder, according to my stats, generally around 54% compared with 46% for my right. But I put that down to my physio’s assessment that my pelvis twisted in childbirth, causing my right leg to be slightly weaker than the left.

“A perfect PES score is 75, but it’s just a guide of where you are,” Wattbike’s Tom Crampton told me. “We have some beginners who get on and just nail it and some seasoned riders who are still hovering around the 55 mark. The key thing is that it’s a visual aid and you can improve it with the simple coaching points on the app.”

The Proton is well designed, but I have some notes

The Proton is set up like a road bike with drop handlebars and a very thin racer-style saddle. It’s fine for short rides, but not that comfortable for longer ones. Padded shorts were definitely needed for any workouts longer than 40 minutes.

The Proton has two bottle holders and caged pedals, but these can be swapped for ones with toe clips if you prefer.

There’s no inbuilt screen, but it has a small media holder, which I used for my iPad and I balanced my phone on the smaller shelf below, however it fell off several times. Something more sturdy or slightly bigger so you can use a tablet and phone at the same time would be helpful.

It’s no exaggeration to say that one of the main things that helped me stay consistent with exercise was finding a good pair of workout leggings.

After all, there’s nothing worse than nearing the end of a set of squats, only to find you need to stop early to adjust your waistband. And putting on activewear that makes you feel good is great motivation for working out.

I’ve been through my fair share of bad-quality leggings over the years. And given that I now test activewear for a living, I think I’ve tried pairs from almost every major workout brand.

Now, I’ve finessed my collection down to only the best, squat-proof leggings that stay in place without uncomfortable compression.

With Black Friday here, I thought I’d share my favorites in case you’d like to add a pair to your workout wardrobe for less than usual. Here are my top picks of leggings from brands like Lululemon, Alo and Oner Active.

Looking for something else? Have a scroll through our round-up of the best Black Friday fitness deals, which we're keeping up to date with the top discounts from today.

Best leggings overall

Best leggings for strength training

Best leggings for yoga and Pilates

Best leggings for cardio

Best leggings for lounging

I'm not a great sleeper. Formative years spent channel-hopping between MTV and Kerrang until well past midnight set me up with some unhealthy habits.

Now in my late 30s with an unruly toddler, I've been trying to curb these late-night screen sessions and establish a better bedtime routine. Enter the Whoop Band 5.0.

I’ve worn this screenless activity tracker every day for the past six months and it's hoovered up plenty of metrics on how I exercise, recover and go about my daily business.

Most importantly, it’s taught me the value of sleep consistency.

Black Friday Whoop Band deals

Good sleep consistency involves going to bed and waking up at similar times every day of the week—yes, even on weekends.

Having this consistent sleep pattern keeps our internal body clock in check, triggering the timely release of hormones like melatonin and cortisol that aid sleep, metabolism and immune function.

It's why my recovery and sleep scores tick up when I achieve a steady sleep pattern, but plummet when I disrupt the schedule.

Research even suggests that sleep consistency is actually more important than the amount of sleep you get, with one 2024 study finding that sleep regularity, rather than duration, is a stronger predictor of mortality risk.

The Whoop Band measures sleep consistency by tracking bed and wake times over a four-day period—it recommends aiming for a score between 80-90%.

Having pored over my data for the past six months, here are four ways I've adjusted my routine to boost consistency, sleep better and recover faster.

1 I now exercise earlier in the day

Maintaining a consistent exercise pattern has a similar knock-on effect for sleep.

I now prefer to do my toughest workouts first thing and save more relaxing sessions, like yoga or stretching, for after work or just before bed.

2 I spend more time outside

Daylight plays a key role in regulating circadian rhythm.

I get outside as early as I can and maximise daylight exposure by walking a little bit further to work or going for a mid-morning stroll around the block.

3 I always read before bed

Another trick I’ve learned is to limit blue light exposure from screens at least an hour before bed.

Instead of scrolling, I stick my nose in a book. It might only be for five minutes. Often I barely finish a page, but it helps me drift off faster and sink into deep sleep for longer.

4 I've said goodbye to alcohol and caffeine

Okay, not completely. I'm not a saint.

But having been partial to a post-lunch cortado or full-bodied red with dinner, I now swerve these temptations the day before important events to minimize any disruption to my sleep scores.

Making these changes has helped me sleep more soundly, wake up fresher and bounce back quicker—and with the Whoop 5.0 band I have the data to show for it.

One of the first things any new personal training client asks me is what they should buy to get started with exercise, and there are five essentials I recommend they buy.

And with the Black Friday sales underway, now is a great time to get your hands on my stock up on fitness equipment, whether you’re new to, or returning to, exercise.

1. Dumbbells

The first thing I recommend is a couple of pairs of dumbbells—5lb and 10lb (or 3kg and 5kg if you’re buying in the UK) pairs are a good place to start until you get stronger—and my personal preference is to get the neoprene hex ones because they are easier to grip and don’t roll around when you put them down on the floor.

If you get a taste for strength training, then you could even consider investing in some adjustable dumbbells like this pair from Echelon, which I just finished testing.

2. Exercise mat

Next, I recommend an exercise mat that isn’t too thin. The cushioning will lessen some of the impact on your joints from exercising and reduce the risk of injury.

3. Resistance bands

A set of loop resistance bands is also worth buying. And you can use these with your dumbbells to make exercises more challenging if you don’t want to buy a heavier pair just yet.

4. Ankle/wrist weights

My last recommendation would be to buy some wearable weights. These are a great way to add light resistance, particularly in Pilates workouts, or you can just wear them around the house doing chores or out on a walk to make it more challenging.

I had a conversation with a PT client recently about how much we love lifting weights and that we wished we started doing it sooner.

We’re both in our late 40s, and admitted that we kind of regretted spending so much time when we were younger obsessed with cardio, avoiding the weights rack for fear it would make us bulky. Now with lean muscle mass and bone density naturally declining with age, lifting heavy weights is one of our main priorities.

One thing that has really levelled up my resistance training routine is these Echelon adjustable dumbbells.

Unlike standard dumbbells, these are multiple sets of weights in one, ranging from 7-52.5lb (3-24kg in the UK). They use removable weight plates to change the resistance, and all you need to do to add or remove plates is to twist the dial in the handle.

The Echelon adjustable dumbbells come with a sturdy stand, so when you switch between weights, the unused plates remain safe in the stand’s tray. The stand has an integrated media holder so you can set up your tablet or phone and do strength workouts via the Echelon Fit app (available on iOS and Android).

I’ve been using the adjustable dumbbells for two weeks and I’m sold. Here’s what I liked about them.

They’re easy to use

The beauty of adjustable dumbbells is that everything is in one place and all you have to do to increase or decrease the resistance is turn the dial in the handle.

This means you can switch quickly—literally about a second—and seamlessly between weights, making your training more time-effective.

The only challenge I found was getting the weights into the house—carrying a box weighing 48kg is definitely a two-person job!

I’m progressing faster

Having such a wide resistance range has meant that I’m much more inclined to pick up a bigger weight and push myself. For weeks, I’d been stuck on an overhead press with 12kg, but since trying the Echelon adjustable dumbbells, I’ve progressed to 15kg.

I’ve also been using heavier loads for squats and reverse lunges, and they’ve helped me feel excited about exercise again after having a few weeks of not feeling motivated.

The only downside is that the dumbbells feel slightly bulky at lighter settings because, irrespective of the resistance, the length of the dumbbells remains the same.

They’re space-saving

Every corner in my house is crammed full of exercise equipment, so it’s a welcome change to have the equivalent of 12 pairs of dumbbells neatly stored all in one space. Imagine trying to find somewhere to put that many free weights in your house!

While adjustable weights cost more upfront and can feel like a big investment, in my opinion it’s money well spent. Plus, the Echelon set is currently in the Black Friday sale so now is the time to grab yourself a discounted set.

I tested the Loop Switch 2 earlier this year and was blown away by how much it helped me to focus.

From loud pubs to construction noise, I struggle with overstimulation and find it difficult to focus in all but the quietest environments.

Loop earplugs offer an adjustable, compact solution that you can take with you wherever you go: the Switch.

Instead of having just one sound filtration setting, it has three, meaning you can add more or less noise reduction to suit your situation as it changes throughout the day.

They're more expensive than some of Loop's other offerings, but they're worth it to have three noise-filtering earbuds in one. Plus, they're under $50 on Amazon right now in an early Black Friday deal.

If you're concerned about discomfort with something in your ears for long periods, I can reassure you that, with the right size, they’re fine to wear all day.

If you like in-ear earbud headphones, they feel much the same.

The signature loop design keeps them snugly seated in the conch of the ear, so you'll find them difficult to knock out by mistake.

I swap between my Loop Switches and listening to music, and find that the Loops are great if I need a little more awareness of my surroundings (like when I’m waiting for a parcel) but don't want to hear the loud, repetitive construction noise coming from my neighbours'.

You can find more great discounts like this one in our round-up of the best Black Friday fitness deals live blog.

Gymshark has kicked off its Black Friday sales, offering up to 50% off everything on site.

It's also offering free returns until January 31, making it even easier to try out a bunch of fits and send back anything you don’t like.

There’s a huge amount of choice on the site, which can feel a little overwhelming—unless you know what you're looking for.

I recently interviewed Samantha Cubbins, the manager of Gymshark’s UK Lifting Club, and asked her about her favorite items from the catalogue.

“I love gym kit, it’s hard to pick one thing!” says Cubbins.

She managed to whittle her top choices down to four items that she loves and can vouch for.

You can shop more discounts like these in our round-up of the best Black Friday fitness deals.

• Shop all Black Friday Gymshark sale

Samantha Cubbin’s top Gymshark picks

Black Friday has come early for Hoka fans, with many popular models discounted in the Hoka sale.

If these discounts weren't enough, you can also get an extra 15% off if you become a Hoka member

I've also been on a hunt for discounts on some of my personal favorites, and have been pleased to find one or two colorways discounted in new season releases like the Hoka Clifton 10 and Hoka Bondi 9.

If you're not sure which shoe to choose, read on and I'll take you on a whistle-stop tour of Hokas I rate, with picks for every need.

If you want full reviews, check out my guide to the best walking shoes.

I’ve never really been a gym girl, preferring to work out at home where I can exercise in my pyjamas if I want to and I don’t have to wait to use the equipment when it’s busy.

But one thing that’s missing from my home gym setup is a weight bench, so when OPPSDECOR Fitness offered to let me try out this one from its range, I was keen to see how it might change the way I exercise.

The OPPSDECOR bench has a weight capacity of 660 pounds, and I found the bench felt more secure than others I’ve tried and it didn’t wobble when I moved between exercises.

Here’s what I discovered using the OPPSDECOR bench for a month.

Having a stable surface means I can do Bulgarian split squats properly

I’ve been working on improving my balance this year and one exercise that is good for that is the Bulgarian split squat. This challenging exercise also helps with mobility in the hips, knees and ankles—something I also want to work on to future-proof my body for older age.

I’ve been trying to do this move with my foot on my sofa, but it’s a bit too low and also the rug underneath keeps moving, which means I inevitably end up slipping and almost doing the splits!

But the weights bench has meant I finally have a stable, knee-high surface to rest one foot on. This has helped me do the exercise with correct form and without the risk of injury.

Working out on an incline has helped my posture

My posture has suffered a bit recently from too much time sitting at my desk and a lot of long car rides. One thing I’ve really enjoyed about having the weights bench is being able to exercise on an incline or decline.

I’ve been doing chest exercises such as incline dumbbell presses because strengthening the muscles that pull the shoulders back can help create a more upright posture.

I’ve found that being able to adjust the angle of the bench has opened up some different exercises that have kept my workouts both varied and challenging.

It’s been great for my older personal training clients

I’ve found having the weight bench really helpful for my work as a personal trainer. It was good for my clients who struggle with mat-based exercises because getting down to and up from the floor is difficult for them.

It also meant I could watch them closely and correct their form without having to crouch down next to them.

For exercises like the chest press, it also allowed them to access a greater range of motion and really hit the muscles we’re trying to strengthen and grow.

I got my ADHD diagnosis a year ago and, since then, have been looking for tools to help me to “hack” my productivity. As anyone with ADHD will tell you, you need to work with your brain, not against it, if you want to get anything done.

Many of the productivity recommendations that work for neurotypical people (people without ADHD) can feel like pulling teeth for someone with an ADHD neurotype. Making lists, setting alarms or giving myself small rewards for completed tasks have always been wholly ineffective techniques for me.

My levels of distractibility mean that I need to remove all potential pitfalls, whether that’s open tabs on my browser, an empty water bottle or sources of invasive sound.

So I work in bursts of focus time, when I shut down everything but the task I’m working on. No notifications, no checking emails, no wandering around my house looking for something to eat. This has boosted my ability to work for a sustained period, but sometimes I’m still yanked out of it by unpredictable noises.

When I was offered some Loop earplugs to test, I was curious to see how they could help me enhance my working day. Rather than trying to avoid the source of noise, I could use them to be less affected by it.

Loop earplugs don’t block out sound completely, rather they filter certain frequencies meaning that you can still hear what’s going on around you, but excessively loud or high-pitched noises are dampened.

They sit in the ear canal like earphones and are easy to insert and remove once you have the hang of it. While they’re in, you can switch between settings on the side of each bud.

My experience wearing the Loop Switch earplugs

It helped me focus

The earplugs I tested, the Loop Switch, have three levels of sound filtration and the Quiet mode was a lifesaver.

I live by a primary school (the UK equivalent of an elementary school) and opposite a building supply yard, so my street tends to be a busy, bustling place during the week. My dog—a greyhound mix—is also a master of communication, and her high-pitched whining can be very distracting when I’m trying to lock in and finish an article.

The quiet mode eliminated all of this distracting noise, allowing me to focus completely on my work.

It’s versatile

The three sound-dampening settings on the Switch make it incredibly useful in a variety of situations.

While the Quiet setting was a game-changer for work, I found the other two modes—Experience and Engage—helpful in other settings, too.

I tend to feel overwhelmed by background noise and struggle to understand if someone is speaking to me in a crowded room. My brain treats all sound as equally important, so focusing on a conversation can be hard.

The Engage mode helped to drown out the hum of the pub and enabled me to engage properly with friends. The earbuds allowed me to feel more comfortable navigating a busy sports bar with music, chatter and live rugby on the screens, which would usually be a setting I would avoid.

Experience is a mode I need to experiment with more, having only tested it at an open mic night so far. I’m excited to see how they work in a fully sound-engineered environment like a gig.

I forgot I was wearing them

Unlike with my bulky noise-cancelling headphones, which get sore after a few hours, I completely forgot the Loop earplugs were in.

I use expanding foam earplugs to sleep and these can get uncomfortable after a few hours, so I expected to have the same experience with the Loop plugs, but was pleasantly surprised.

Once you’ve got your size right (I’m an XS), the silicone tips sit in the ear canal but don’t go very deep, meaning they aren’t pressing against the delicate parts of the inner ear and causing discomfort. If you can comfortably wear earbuds, you won’t have an issue with these.

I did notice they got a little less comfortable when I sweated, but after taking them out and drying my ears I was good to go again.

Is the Loop Switch worth it?

For me, Loop earplugs are definitely worth the money. It’s become an integral part of my routine, particularly on days when I don’t want to listen to music, and offer an extra degree of protection between me and the overwhelming noise of the world around me.

The Switch combines three earplugs in one, so adapt well to whatever situation you’re in. Feeling overwhelmed? You don’t need to swap them for a different pair, just flick them to a higher setting.

Not having to carry multiple pairs of earplugs and headphones and having to swap between them keeps me feeling safe and comfortable even in louder settings.

If you like to exercise, you’ll know that it’s best to do a range of activities, including weights and cardio. That’s why it pays to have a pair of versatile cross-training shoes that can handle whatever workout’s on the docket.

My colleague, who tests shoes for our guide to the best cross-training shoes, is a connoisseur of all things fitness footwear. When I spotted one of her favorites on sale, I couldn’t miss the chance to share it, and it’s from one of my favorites as well.

A shoe brand you’ll frequently hear both of us recommending is Hoka, a manufacturer famed for its marshmallow-like cushioning, making it a favorite for runners and walkers.

That quality is less than ideal in a workout shoe, because big stacks of foam underfoot can make lifting weights harder and can make you feel unstable—but Hoka’s top shoe for cross-training, the Hoka Solimar, swerves those problems, and it’s now 19% off at REI.

My colleague suggests using purpose-built shoes if you’re running long distances or lifting very heavy, but for a quick 5K followed by a kettlebell session, the Solimar is versatile enough to meet your needs.

Hoka tends to lean toward chunkier midsoles, but this isn’t the case with the Solimar. It is lightweight, with a modest heel-to-toe drop and a sleek profile.

My colleague noted that the shoe offers an excellent level of lateral stability, which is important for HIIT or fast-paced resistance training in particular. The reinforced heel keeps your ankle stable and the built-in rocker helps with a smooth toe off when running.

Welcome to Fit&Well's Gym Bag Essentials, a new series asking expert trainers, coaches, writers and product testers what they won’t leave home without.

Keys. Phone. Wallet. Watch. Trainers. Bands. Electrolytes.

I like to be prepared for any workout eventuality when on the go. Whether office, bar or airport bound, that means ensuring I've packed essential items that will keep me mobile, hydrated, in the zone and ready to exercise if the opportunity arises.

After more than a decade of training, coaching and product testing the best portable fitness equipment around, I've whittled down my list to six essentials I've come to rely on. But first, the gym bag I carry them all in.

The gym bag: The North Face Recon Backpack

After years of trial and error, this durable and compact 30L pack has become my trusted choice for daily carry. It's served me equally well in the city as it has on the slopes. There’s enough room for a pair of trainers, along with a laptop, water bottle and, with pockets galore, ample room for other workout essentials.

1. Lightweight long-loop resistance band

Hands down the best pound-for-pound gym equipment you can buy. I use this lightweight red resistance band to warm up before every workout, to alleviate tightness in my upper body when tied to my desk all day, and to maintain upper-body strength on vacation.

2. Nike Invincible Run 3 or R.A.D One V2 Triple Black

Nikes for running; R.A.D Ones for strength. These two pairs of trainers have been on rotation in my gym bag the past year while I've been alternating road running with resistance training. Hybrid shoes exist, but I prefer to use specialist trainers for each discipline.

3. Freetrain Running Vest

Running vests have become the norm where I run. Yes, it's a tad ostentatious, but I never quite clicked with waist or armband phone holders. I own the V1 from Freetrain and it serves its purpose whether on long, slow runs or all-out interval sprints. Five years later, it's still going strong.

4. TriggerPoint Massage Ball

Small and lightweight yet firm and durable, this massage ball has helped massage away countless knots in the soles of my feet, glutes, pecs and lower back.

5. Dr Vegan Hydrate+ Electrolytes

Lately, I feel like water isn’t quite cutting it. I now start the day with a swig of electrolytes (sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium) for hydration, recovery and mental focus.

6. Bose noise-cancelling earbuds

Finally, a pair of wireless earbuds that don't compromise audio quality or sacrifice workout suitability. They are not cheap by any standards, but the chargeable case provides up to six hours of playback and the impressive noise-cancelling setting effectively shuts out external distractions when I need to get my head down with work or my workout.

I've been scouring the Prime Big Deal Days sales for the best deals and think I've found a winner—52% off a top-rated Amazon best seller.

This acupressure mat from the yoga and Pilates brand ProsourceFit is only $14.49 today.

When deals are this good, they don't last long, so make sure you add to cart and check out well before midnight when the sale ends.

Event discounts are only available to Prime members, but you can get a 30-day free trial if you see something that really tickles your fancy.

If you're not sure about accupressure or worry the spikes will be painful, my colleague explains that it isn’t “painful in the slightest.”

As for her results, she says it helped her achieve restful sleep and she made it a daily ritual to experience the same deep relaxation her first session gave her.

These mats stimulate pressure points along the body, much as an acupuncturist would with needles, and help release muscle tension and boost your circulation. This can help with post-workout recovery or aid with stress management.

As for this particular mat, more than 51,000 Amazon customers have rated it, giving it an overall score of 4.2 out of 5 stars. It is also Amazon's number one bestselling acupuncture product.

I haven’t set foot in a gym since the COVID-19 pandemic, relying on home workout equipment to keep me fit.

However, now I'm moving house and with a gym within walking distance at my new place, I'm finally getting ready to go back.

Part of that process has been making a shopping list for all the things I'll need, and as it's Amazon’s annual Prime Big Deal Days sale, I've found some handy discounts on some of my essentials.

The discounts are only available to Prime members, but you can get a 30-day free trial if you’re not a member already.

If you're heading back to the gym after a hiatus, or just looking for some cheap essentials, read on.

Prime Day fitness deals

I’ve had an on-again, off-again relationship with the gym for years.

While having access to cardio machines and a wide range of weights is great, I’m always drawn back to the convenience of home workouts.

You don’t need a lot of gear to exercise in your living room, but I've found that having the right set-up will help you stay motivated and make progress quickly.

I recently interviewed Ben Alldis and Hannah Frankson, two expert instructors at Peloton, who agreed that there are a lot of benefits to working out at home.

I asked what equipment they recommend for beginners—here’s what they said.

1. Dumbbells

Strength training should be a core part of your home workout routine, as it helps with everything from longevity to metabolism and reduces your chance of injury.

“Get a set of light, medium and heavy dumbbells to begin with,” says Alldis.

Having a range of weights allows you to try out different moves and add load when you need to.

You could opt for adjustable dumbbells to save space and money, or get a set of fixed-weight dumbbells, which allow for speedy changes between exercises.

2. Mat

A mat can provide cushioning for moves like planks, push-ups and sit-ups.

More importantly, however, it helps you demarcate your workout space.

“Something as simple as a mat can change your whole room,” says Frankson. “It’s a definite message to yourself: ‘This is now my workout space’.”

3. Fun cardio machine

Unsurprisingly, one of the first things the Peloton instructors recommend buying is a bike.

“To be fair, I get on my bike most mornings!” says Frankson, who’s known for her upbeat cycling classes.

Pick a form of cardio that you like and buy something in line with that.

It doesn’t have to be a bike—although some of the Peloton models are currently discounted in the Prime Day sale—just make sure it’s something you enjoy.

4. Yoga blocks

Regular yoga sessions can help you stay mobile and lower your stress levels.

Frankson admits she prefers high-energy workouts to yoga, but she says she makes sure she does it once a week at a minimum to keep her mobility in check.

Alldis recommends getting yoga blocks if you’re a beginner, as they can support you during difficult poses.