5 Essential Accessories to Help You Reach Your Fitness Goals This Year

If this is the year you will transform your habits, push your limits, and become the healthiest “you” possible, you likely need a few items to help make your dreams a reality.

From the best fitness watch in Dubai to the compression socks and snacks that keep you going further, read on for the five essential accessories you need to help you reach your fitness goals this year.

1. Ankle Weights

If you are looking to create toned, lean legs and a lifted butt, you will want a pair of ankle weights. These simple workout accessories help activate your muscles – even when you are doing everyday activities (such as standing and cooking dinner).

Ankle weights are ideal because they work your legs hard enough without breaking down or enlarging your muscles. Plus, you can move around while you are wearing them.

Depending on your current fitness and goals, you can choose from a variety of weights, which helps you control the amount of resistance. What’s more, by rotating through different weights, you can reach a variety of muscles, ensuring that you are able to engage all the hard-to-reach areas.

2. Fitness Watch

Fitness watches and trackers have become incredibly popular over the past few years, and for good reason. They provide one of the best ways to help change your habits, reach your fitness goals, and get healthier. For many individuals, being able to track their fitness stats is one of the best (and most motivating) aspects of wearing a fitness watch. You can continuously monitor your steps, the number of calories you have burned, and your heart rate zone.

Even if you already observe healthy habits and consistently exercise, utilizing a fitness watch helps ensure that you track your progress accurately and increases the likelihood of training success. By using the tracking features, you can capture both a big picture view of your workout routine, as well as smaller details.

For example, the Polar Ignite Fitness Watch offers wearers a wrist-based heart rate, personalized daily workout direction, integrated GPS, and night-time recovery measurement. Whether you want to track your runs, walks, or rides, get the most out of your fitness class, or see how well you (and your muscles) recuperate during the night, this fitness watch is your perfect partner.

3. Smartphone Accessories

No matter what your preferred type of sport or exercise may be, there is a good chance that your smartphone is involved in some capacity. Sometimes, you might use it to play pump-up music, while other times, it’s what you need to navigate your route. And while smartphones are the ideal workout buddies, they can also be cumbersome if you don't have the appropriate accessories.

One of the most essential smartphone accessories to purchase is a high-quality armband that will ensure your phone remains stable and protected while you are working out. The best options for smartphone armbands also come with space for your credit cards, keys, and cash, as well as a loop for your headphone cords.

Alternatively, suppose you often exercise at night. In that case, you may want to consider a running belt that has a reflective zipper so that you can be seen by drivers and other individuals who are out running or cycling.

However, if an armband or running belt is not the right fit for you, opt for a running backpack. Look for one that is water-resistant, offers adjustable shoulder straps, and sits comfortably on your back to ensure that it doesn't move and bounce around unnecessarily throughout your workout. These backpacks are designed to hold everything essential and nothing more.

4. Compression Socks

If you are a runner, compression socks are essential as they raise your muscle temperature, increase oxygen delivery, prevent cramps and lactic acid buildup, and decrease muscle pain and damage. Together, this means less inflammation in your body, which improves both your performance and your recovery process.

Therefore, if one of your fitness goals this year is to run longer before fatigue sets in, then you are going to want a pair (or two) of compression socks.

When shopping for a pair of compression socks, keep in mind that they come in a range of pressures and lengths. For example, the 2XU Women Elite Lite X: Lock Compression Socks are an ultra-light, very breathable pair that feature olefin yarns for greater moisture management and durability. Alternatively, another option is the 2XU Women X Performance Run Compression Socks that boast zoned breathability panels, a linked toe cage, and PWX compression to boost blood flow and performance.

5. Gym Bag

If you are going to reach your fitness goals this year and make your planned workouts a reality, you need to ensure that you have all your accessories and equipment with you when on the go. Equipping yourself with a gym bag is crucial as it means you can have on hand all the items needed to guarantee that you make the most of your time.

You can keep your fitness gadgets that support your workouts in your gym bag, such as your heart rate monitor, headphones, and workout clothes. This is also where you can store your pre-and post-workout snacks and drinks to ensure your body can perform and recover properly. Many pro athletes like to stock up on Gu Energy Chews as the portable packets contain energy-dense calories that significantly help maintain the energy you need.

Finally, you also want to keep your beauty and hygiene essentials in your bag. These products may include dry shampoo, oil for your body and hair, deodorant, makeup remover, and anything else you need so that you can clean up and continue with your day after your workout.

What are your fitness goals this year? What accessories do you need to make sure that you achieve them? How are you going to ensure that you maintain your energy (and motivation) to keep going? Let us know your thoughts and any extra ideas you have in the comments below.