Welcome to 2025, where fitness goals are less about pushing limits and more about moving with comfort, gentleness, and joy. This year, the vibes are all about tuning into your body, embracing exercises that feel good, and creating a routine that supports your physical and mental well-being. Whether it’s yoga, stretching, or leisurely walks, the key is to move in ways that bring you peace and pleasure.
Soft workouts are exactly how they sound—low-impact and soft on your joints. The goal is “to keep the body moving without putting larger amounts of stress on it—the way that running or intense cardio can do,” Taylor Bogenschuetz, CPT, personal trainer and director of training and development at Solidcore, previously told Well+Good.
And, of course, the right gear plays a huge role—think soft, breathable fabrics, supportive shoes, and recovery accessories that make every movement feel effortless. Ready to embrace a kinder, more comfortable approach to fitness? We’re here to help you find the tools that make you feel your best.
1. Oak-Sports Stretching Strap — $6.00
“People always focus on their workouts but forget how important recovery is,” says Austin Martinez, CSCS, vice president of education at StretchLab. “My go-to recovery tool is a stretch strap. It’s great for getting deeper into stretches and is perfect for PNF stretching.” Stretching straps provide great support for tons of different stretches, are easy to grip, and come in 11 different colors.
2. Bala Bands Resistance Bands — $33.00
Perfect for an on-the-go fitness moment, resistance bands are ready to work whenever you are. Martinez says, “They’re light, compact, and easy to pack, so you can work out anywhere.” Bala Bands come in different sizes and resistance levels to target various muscle groups.
ADVERTISEMENT |
3. Manduka Foam Yoga Block — $40.00
Comfort doesn’t have to be sacrificed for hard work. Lucas says, “Manduka has many great products, but their recycled foam blocks strike a balance of firmness and support while still being comfortable during practice.” These blocks can be used whenever more support is needed in poses.
4. Hyperice Hypervolt Go 2 Massage Gun — $109.00
Designed to bring relief at home, this massage gun provides percussion therapy to muscle tissues, helping with recovery and targeting muscles and trigger points. It’s ideal for use after workouts to give your muscles some TLC.
5. Liforme Yoga Pad — $57.00
The Liforme Yoga Pad is portable and perfect for those on the go. Lucas notes its compact size makes it ideal for carry-on luggage, and it’s made using eco-friendly materials.
6. Beyond Yoga High-Waisted Leggings — $68.00
Perfect for cozy workouts, these buttery-soft leggings move with you, thanks to their lightweight, moisture-wicking fabric. Available in multiple sizes and designed for comfort throughout your workout.
7. Tavi Noir Thigh-High Leg Warmers — $40.00
These leg warmers keep you warm during winter workouts and can be paired with shorts or layered over leggings. Made of soft knit fabric, they stretch to thigh-height and come in four colors.
8. Hyperice Normatec 3 Compression Boots — $724.00
These compression boots are a self-care essential, improving circulation and reducing swelling and inflammation to enhance muscle recovery. They are recommended by trainers and physical therapists for optimal recovery.
9. Vooray Burner Gym Duffel Bag — $45.00
A spacious and functional gym bag, the Vooray duffel can carry all your workout essentials. It comes with multiple pockets and is machine washable for easy care.
10. TRX Pro4 Suspension System — $203.00
This equipment is ideal for stretching and strength building. The TRX system is versatile and great for small spaces, enabling you to achieve a well-rounded workout targeting overlooked muscles.
Investing in the right fitness gear can transform your workouts into a more enjoyable and effective experience. Each of these picks offers unique benefits that can help you stay comfortable, recover faster, and feel empowered on your wellness journey this year.
