Women’s fitness is all about helping females establish life-long results to improve their health and self-esteem. Some of the best women’s fitness programs are built around a healthy diet and wholesome goals.
In the past, strenuous exercise for women was pretty taboo. Women were told to “behave like women,” which often meant pretending they couldn’t open the pickle jar.
Fitness Routines for Women
Women need to be active for both their health and for a feeling of well-being. Regular exercise helps build strong muscles and bones, improve balance, and increase endurance. An expert trainer can help you craft a workout plan that meets your fitness goals and is safe for your age and condition. A good beginner workout plan should include a mix of aerobic, muscle-strengthening, and bone-strengthening activities. Aerobic exercises are those that get your large muscles moving rhythmically for a long period, such as swimming, brisk walking, running, or cycling. Muscle-strengthening activities include lifting weights multiple times or using bodyweight exercises like push-ups to strengthen different muscle groups.
Hormonal fluctuations can affect muscle mass and energy levels, so workouts that take into account a woman’s unique needs are crucial. Taking the time to warm up and cool down is also important. Many people find listening to music helpful during a workout because it can boost their energy and act as a mental distraction. Women who are new to exercising or who haven’t worked out in a while should start with lower-intensity workouts and smaller weights so as not to overexert themselves. A good workout routine can transform how you feel, so stick with it and keep your eye on the prize.
Fitness Accessories for Women
Women’s fitness accessories—including running belts to stash essentials, sunglasses to protect eye health, and headbands to keep flyaways out of your face—can help you make the most of each workout. From equipment like resistance bands and skipping ropes to wardrobe additions such as workout gloves, adjustable caps, and backpacks, these add-ons will take your fitness journey to the next level.
Whether your wellness-obsessed friend is hitting the gym, running a race, or practicing yoga, they’ll appreciate these thoughtful fitness gifts. This WH reader-top-selling workout journal is essential for keeping track of exercises, sets and reps, and goals—plus it’s compact enough to tuck into a gym bag.
Your fitness-loving pal will love adding some extra oomph to her workout with these stylish and functional wrist weights, which feature a lightweight design that can be worn during walking or other activities. They also offer a range of colors and come in one or two-pound options.
These soft, sweat-wicking leggings will become her go-to workout staple as temps drop thanks to their moisture-wicking fabric and fitted silhouette that’s uber-flattering on everyone. Plus, the fabric is odor-resistant and machine-washable.
This snazzy water bottle doubles as a foam roller, allowing your workout-obsessed friend to quench her thirst and soothe her sore muscles at the same time. Plus, it keeps her water ice-cold for hours and is travel-friendly.
Fitness Products for Women
Women have a lot to keep up with, from managing family and work to exercising regularly. That’s why it’s essential to have fitness equipment that is designed specifically with women in mind.
Whether you’re working out in the gym or at home, there are plenty of products on the market that will help you achieve your fitness goals. For example, these Nike socks are a staple for any workout wardrobe. They’re made from moisture-wicking cotton that keeps feet cool and dry, even during a sweaty workout.
Or, try these resistance bands that come with ankle straps and door attachments so you can exercise while you’re on the go.
Fitness Apps for Women
While some workout apps are targeted at women, most of them are not gender-specific and can be used by anyone. What is important for most people, however, is finding the app that will help them meet their fitness goals and fit well with their schedule. Choosing an app requires a lot of thought and consideration, including budget, time constraints, and what type of exercise you like to do.
One of our top picks for a workout app is Future, which offers the expertise of a personal trainer in an online format. This service starts at $199 a month and includes daily check-ins, personalized training plans, and accountability through coach feedback. It’s a great option for those who want to make the most out of their workouts and are looking for the motivation, support, and accountability that a personal trainer can provide.
If you prefer a less expensive option, Nike Training Club is free and features high-quality workouts designed by top female fitness professionals. These include Kayla Itsines, Kelsey Wells, Chontel Duncan, Britany Williams, and Stephanie Sanzo. You’ll also find a variety of different workouts, from high-intensity zero equipment sessions to full-body strength training programs.
Another good choice is obe Fitness, which is free and offers more than 10,000 on-demand classes led by world-class instructors. These classes span a range of styles, such as barre, yoga, Pilates, dance, and HIIT.
