Lifelong Endurance

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Gift Giving Guide for the Gracious Athlete

Pondering what to giving your favorite racing family member or pal? We have counted down the top 25 gifts to give your fitness fanatic friends.

  • A GPS device: Whether it is the new Garmin, or or a reliable Fitbit, this will help your athlete track their activity, and think of you on their long runs.

  • Training sessions: Whether it is a punch card for personal training, or a coaching packing, you will help your athlete meet their goal with a little bit of help. Read more about this gift.

  • Race Entries: You spring for a full smaller race, or help pay for a larger race. A less expensive alternative is donating your time to accrue free race entries to give to friends.

  • Socks: Everyone needs socks. They may not be glamorous, but a new pair of fancy running socks, recovery compression socks, or some cozy wool socks for after a chilly run are all cherished gifts

  • Race Branded Items: Did they race a big event this year (Boston Marathon, a full Ironman, their first 5k?) finding a souvenir- such as a shirt, coffee mug, or hat - branded by that race could be a beloved item

  • Recovery gear: Yoga matts, foam rollers, exercise bands, are all useful items for the off-season athlete.

  • Headphones: These can range in price and level of high tech, giving you flexibility on spending on a useful gift.

  • Hats, headbands, gators: Whether it is a warm beanie or a nice light running cap, having a staple piece for an athlete to keep in their gym bag is practical an versatile. Similarly, headbands, gators, or Buffs can be used year round in various conditions.

  • Training Subscription Memberships: Does your running or triathlete friend use TrainingPeaks, or any other training software? Pay for a year long or premium subscription.

  • Gift Cards: If your favorite athlete is a bit of an enigma, a gift card to a favorite cycling or running store can help them find the gear they really need.

  • Go on an adventure: Going on a fun training get away or planning a race with a friend or family member is an awesome way to provide an experience more than a material gift.

  • Sunglasses: Like hats and socks, not athlete is worried about having too many. An extra pair of glasses to keep in the gym bag or car can be helpful on an impromptu run.

  • Books or magazine subscriptions: There are no shortage of Running Memoirs, Athlete Cookbooks, and Running/ Triathlete themed magazines in the world; it should be easy to find one that fits your friend or loved-one’s personality or needs.

  • Race Decorations: A place to display old bibs, medals, or race photos are a great way to show that you support your friend in their accomplishments.

  • Clothing: Athletes are not always focused on buying new tights or jackets, so finding a piece of clothing that fits their aesthetic and climate needs is both practical and fun!

  • Nutrition and Hydration: A few packs of their favorite training treat or hydration supplement can be a great gift or stocking stuffer.

  • Running Packs: Whether you get a small waist pack for a road runner or a more robust pack for a trail runner, something to carry their phone, snacks, or water is a big hit!

  • Safety Gear: Nothing quite says, “I care” like safety gear. Reflective lights, vests, or a headlamp are incredibly valuable.

  • Water Bottles: Squeeze bottles for the bike, small bottles for a running vest, or a big bottle for the car are useful and easy to find (bonus idea, filling the bottle with small goodies can be a create a fun alternative to a gift box.)

  • A handwritten note: Gifts are great, but so is companionship. Let your favorite person (athlete or not) know you care with a thoughtful card.