Top 10 Essential Workout Enhancers
In this era where shelves are brimming with wellness offerings, distinguishing the valuable from the trivial can be a daunting task.
Drawing from my seven-year stint in fitness instruction, I have curated a roster of indispensable items that have become my fitness cohort. These are the pinnacle wellness tools I advocate for my patrons, and now I’m unveiling them to you.
Bear in mind that while these tools are my holy grail, your health journey is personal. Tailoring to your aspirations, whether muscle sculpting, endurance running, improving slumber, or swift recovery, will guide you to your must-haves. Nevertheless, using my favorites as a launchpad can serve you well. Turn to this roundup as a helpful resource!
Explore These Transformational 10 Fitness Tools
1. Hoka Bondi 8 Running Shoes — $165
Sizes: 5 to 12 (also available in wide) | Colorways: 20 | Fit: True to size | Weight: 8.90 oz
Only when I slipped on a pair of Hokas did I truly understand the value of a good running shoe. Prior to this discovery, any stylish, semi-comfortable “running” shoe would have found its way into my routine, leaving me with knee discomfort after a few miles.
However, not all running footwear is crafted equally. The Hoka Bondi 8 offers unparalleled cushioning that took a little getting used to—it was like adjusting to new dance steps. But once I adapted, my runs became a breeze, without the pain.
According to Bekah Broe, a seasoned product executive at Hoka, “Opting for shoes dedicated for running is crucial. It can aid in injury prevention, performance boost, comfort, and overall longevity. Running unleashes distinct strains on the body, and the right shoes can certainly mitigate injury risks, enhancing your running venture.”
Remember that it’s advisable to refresh your running shoes after every 250 to 400-mile mark to maintain the best condition.
Advantages:
- Endorsed by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)
- Plush midsole comfort
- MetaRocker designed to propel you forward
- Secure foot cradle for stability
- Satisfaction guarantee or money-back
Drawbacks:
- Bulky sole may not suit everyone
- Lack of water resistance
2. Oura Ring — $299+
Sizes: 6 to 13 | Designs: Gold, silver, rose gold, stealth, black, and brushed titanium | Battery Life: 5 to 7 days
Juggling early mornings and late evenings makes my sleep crucial albeit limited. Recognizing that rest is pivotal for recovery, cognition, and vitality, I’ve been on a quest to prioritize it.
In my pursuit, the Oura ring became my sleep-tracking companion. Its comfort is such that it feels non-existent on my finger as I slumber.
Beyond sleep analysis, the Oura ring sheds light on heart rate variability (HRV), body temperature shifts, readiness levels, stress management, activity tracking, and even menstrual cycle prediction, among other metrics.
Equipped with this array of insights, I am able to gauge my restfulness and temper my daily routine accordingly. If the ring indicates that my readiness is wanting, based on the data, I tailor my workout to what my body can presently manage to avert training overload.
“Your primary Oura score, Readiness, is tailored uniquely to you, offering insights into what resonates best with your physical wellbeing and habits,” states the Oura Ring website. “Readiness gives you a comprehensive view of your wellness by considering your latest activities, sleep habits, and direct physiological measurements (such as resting heart rate, heart rate variability, and body temperature), which can indicate whether your body is experiencing stress.”
Understanding my body’s signals can be challenging, but having tangible data makes it undeniable.
Advantages:
- Elegant design
- Cozy to wear
- Compatible with multiple applications
- Extended battery life
- Waterproof up to 100 meters
- Highly accurate in measuring heart rate and variability
Disadvantages:
- Costly
- Subscription required ($5.99/month)
- Less effective at monitoring physical activity
3. Momentous Creatine — $37
Quantity: 15.8 oz | Sessions: 90 (5 grams of creatine per session)
I initially believed that creatine was solely for weightlifters wanting to bulk up. Even as a fitness coach who understands that weight training doesn’t necessarily lead to an increase in size, I thought creatine was primarily for muscle enlargement.
Upon extensive online research, I discovered that creatine is one of the most scientifically vetted supplements, and it offers numerous benefits for regular gym-goers, not just those interested in muscle gain.
“Creatine contributes to improved explosiveness, strength, muscle development, better recuperation after injuries, and can speed up injury healing times,” explains Jenna Stangland MS, RD, CSSD, CLT, a registered dietitian.
Including creatine in my diet has had significant effects; I’ve seen an increase in lean muscle, but more notably, I no longer experience the consistent post-workout soreness I used to have before using creatine.
Creatine renders cognitive perks as well, Strangland adds.
“Creatine’s role in the brain can affect mood regulation, and studies suggest lower levels of certain types of creatine may be linked with more intense depressive states. Ongoing research points to daily creatine intake as a potential enhancer of cell robustness and survival, positively influencing brain creatine levels,” she notes.
Pros:
- Certified by NSF for sporting use
- Fosters muscle development
- Enhances brain performance
- Aids in speeding up recovery from injuries
Cons:
- Potentially harmful if you have kidney issues
- May cause initial water retention and bloat
4. LMNT Electrolyte Drink Mix — $21
Flavor Options: citrus salt, raspberry salt, orange salt, watermelon salt | Volume: 0.21 oz per packet | Key Electrolytes: sodium, potassium, magnesium
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It’s crucial to maintain your electrolyte levels when engaging in physical activities, as these minerals are integral to regulating your body’s water balance and enhancing athletic performance.
Insufficient hydration and electrolytes may lead to symptoms such as headaches, lethargy, constipation, muscle cramps, and an irregular heartbeat.
LMNT’s official website states “Lack of hydration results in reduced blood volume, decreased cardiac output, and diminished aerobic endurance. Consequently, your heart has to work harder but achieves less.”
LMNT’s formulation includes 1000 milligrams of sodium, 200 milligrams of potassium, and 60 milligrams of magnesium, offering an excellent blend to replenish your body’s needs.
A distinctive aspect of LMNT that sets it aside from other available options is its subdued sweetness. Its high sodium content counterbalances the sweetness, which I describe as akin to a virgin margarita with a salted rim when asked about its flavor.
For those not keen on powdered supplements, LMNT offers an alternative in the form of sparkling water in cans.
Pros:
- Convenient for travel
- Blends effortlessly
- Free from sugar, sweetened with Stevia instead
Cons:
- May not be suitable for those sensitive to salt
- The salty flavor may be off-putting for some
5. OOFOS OOahh Sport Flex Sandal — $80
Sizes: 5 to 22 | Colorways: Various | Weight: 4.9 oz | Fit: Order a size up for half sizes
It was only recently that the concept of recovery footwear entered my radar, and since then, they’ve become indispensable to my routine.
Changing into my OOFOS recovery slides post-exercise has given my feet the respite they sorely needed, especially after extended periods of standing, like during a full day of coaching.
Dan Hobson, who leads product design at OOFOS, emphasizes the importance of foot care, pointing out that our feet bear substantial stress, particularly when engaged in physical activity. He remarks that caring for our feet is vital for overall health and well-being, prevention of injuries, and improved athletic performance.
What sets OOFOS slides apart is their proprietary OOfoam, which absorbs 37% more impact compared to other foams, effectively reducing stress on your joints and evenly distributing the pressure over your feet.
Pros:
- Excellent impact absorption
- Reduces stress on the joints
- Promotes even pressure distribution across the foot
Cons:
- Open-toed design may not be suitable for all weather conditions
6. On Cloudpulse Training Shoe — $150
Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colorways: Diverse shades | Weight: 10 oz | Fit: Fits true to size
My exercise routine and work at Orangetheory have been revolutionized by the discovery of these training shoes.
Throughout my professional journey, up until recently, I had always opted for running shoes for my workout classes. The Cloudpulse was a game-changer for me, being my first experience with a specialized training shoe, and I absolutely adore it. The design is impressively light, which permits easy movement, yet it does not compromise on stability during strenuous interval workouts.
Especially within Orangetheory classes, the combination of vigorous treadmill and rowing machine workouts, complemented by dynamic exercises on the gym floor, demands versatile footwear. Running shoes, while perfect for their designated purpose, would leave me disconnected from the tactile ground feedback during floor exercises. Additionally, their bulkiness was a poor match for the snug confines of a rowing machine. However, the Cloudpulse strikes a harmonious balance with sufficient cushioning for a 25-minute run and the right design for floor exercises.
Rusty Sarhn, a proficient running coach based in Los Angeles, offers his insights on why running footwear isn’t ideal for lifting weights. He points out that the typical running shoe is constructed with a sloped design, optimized for forward motion and with ample cushioning to absorb the impact during running. In contrast, lifting shoes are designed with a flatter base and feature a rubbery outsole for enhanced stability and a sturdy grip on the ground, which is crucial for weightlifting as it brings you closer to the ground and therefore more stable.
The pros of the Cloudpulse include being lightweight, supportive for both heavy lifting and high-intensity interval training exercises, compatible with rowing machines, and sufficiently comfortable for running. However, on the downside, they may not provide as much comfort during extended runs as compared to dedicated running shoes and might show earlier signs of wear and tear than some other shoes on the market.
Additionally, I’d like to highlight one of my go-to recovery aids – the Dynamic Health Organic Tart Cherry Juice, retailing at $28. Each 32 oz bottle comes with 15 servings, providing 29 grams of organic tart cherry juice per serving. A simple tablespoon each night has noticeably aided in both my sleep quality and muscle recovery. Though personal experiences can vary, and health benefits should be taken as individual cases.
Erica Giovinazzo, a registered dietitian, supports the use of tart cherry juice for its rich content of phenols that act as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents. Since intense workouts can cause inflammation and soreness, the consumption of tart cherry juice can reduce such effects, aiding in better recovery. Moreover, it contains high levels of melatonin and tryptophan, which may improve sleep quality – an essential factor in the body’s recovery process.
Pros of the Dynamic Health Organic Tart Cherry Juice are abundant antioxidants, high levels of melatonin and tryptophan which are good for sleep, and its affordability. However, cons include the potential for gastric distress and the need for more research to substantiate the health benefits.
Lastly, let’s delve into the Vital Proteins Protein Powder, priced at $27. The container size is 1.29 lbs and provides 14 servings with each serving containing a substantial 20 grams of protein. Protein is the cornerstone of muscle development, and it’s an area I’ve become quite knowledgeable in. Incorporating more protein into my diet has been instrumental in enhancing the strength of my lifts and building lean muscle mass.“`html
I ensure my body’s recuperation by having a single scoop of protein daily, combined with my creatine.
“Incorporating protein with carbs a few hours before exercise provides the fuel needed to excel and stay energized. It’s also crucial for muscle development. Post-workout protein intake aids in muscle repair,” shares Kathleen Garcia-Benson, an accredited diet and fitness expert.
Pros:
- Pure, clean ingredients
- Blends smoothly
- Promotes digestive health
- Delicious flavor
Cons:
- No measuring scoop included
- Less protein per serving compared to whey protein
9. Benefiber Prebiotic Fiber Supplement Gummies — $17
Size: 81-count | Servings: 27 (3 gummies provide 6 grams of fiber)
I’ve been focusing on digestive health recently, like many others. To aid my gut health, I began to include a daily fiber supplement. Believe it or not, gut wellness does impact your fitness regime.
Valerie Agyeman, a dietitian, points out that “A healthy digestive system enhances the absorption of vital nutrients, which contributes to having ample endurance and energy during your workouts, keeps your blood sugar stable, and supports optimal physical performance. Moreover, it helps regulate hormones affecting mood, metabolism, and overall health.”
My experience with these fiber gummies has been positive, keeping me consistent and in top condition, both at the gym and in daily life.
Pros:
- Provides 6 grams of fiber per serving
- Delightful taste
- Free from sugar
Cons:
- Potential for gastrointestinal discomfort
- Essential to drink ample water to aid fiber and prevent constipation
10. Tempo Home Gym — $80+/month
Memberships: Move Home Gym Bundle, Studio Suite Bundle, Core Bundle
Even as a trainer with gym access, the convenience of exercising at home is a game-changer. The isolation helps when I’m unsure of my workout routine or when gym anxiety kicks in.
Tempo provides a home workout system with artificial intelligence to personalize your training. Different packages come with modifiable weights, and your phone tracks your movements, offering custom training recommendations.
“With real-time form tracking and corrective feedback, you’re guaranteed a more efficient workout. Our system challenges you consistently, as with personal coaching,” says Tempo’s principal trainer Melissa Boyd.
For those who are passionate about weightlifting, seeking guidance, and convenience, Tempo is an ideal solution.
Pros:
- Simple setup
- AI technology counts reps and assesses form
- Visually appealing design
- Automatically adjusts weights and reps as you progress
Cons:
- It’s a significant investment
- Depends on subscription model
