The holidays are here, and if you’re shopping for the CrossFitter, weightlifter, or fitness fanatic in your life (or maybe even yourself!), we’ve got you covered.
Our coaches put together the definitive list of gear, from must-have basics to game-changing accessories. This list is more than just recommendations—it’s an explanation of why this gear matters for long-term progress!
10. CrossFit/Training Shoes
Training shoes are the foundation of your movement. Running shoes have too much cushion and instability, which is dangerous for lifting. You need a shoe with a flat, stable base for power and ankle security.
Our Picks: Flux, Reebok Nano, or RAD Global. All offer excellent stability and durability for diverse movements.
9. Gymnastics Grips
If your pull-ups, toes-to-bar, or bar muscle-ups get cut short because of ripped hands, you need grips. They protect your skin, reduce friction, and improve your hold on the bar.
Our Picks: Frog Grips (durable synthetic fabric) or Victory Grips (known for comfort and different material options).
8. Lifting Shoes (Lifters)
These are crucial for anyone serious about Olympic Weightlifting (Snatch and Clean & Jerk) or heavy squats. Lifters have a raised, incompressible heel that allows for a deeper, more upright torso position, improving power transfer and safety.
Our Picks: Nike Romulus, or TYR (newcomer with excellent stability).
7. A Quality Gym Bag
Stop lugging your gear around in a backpack meant for textbooks. A dedicated gym bag keeps your shoes, belt, tape, and post-workout essentials organized.
Our Picks: A military tactical backpack off Amazon (great durability and compartments) or King Kong (designed specifically for gym gear with separate shoe pockets).
6. Best Stocking Stuffers (Under $25)
These small items make a huge difference in daily training comfort and consistency.
Thumb Tape: Essential for hook grip when lifting without tearing skin.
Callus Care Kit: Keeping calluses trimmed prevents painful rips.
Weightlifting Straps: Great for accessory work (like heavy RDLs or rows) where grip strength limits the muscle you’re trying to target.
5. Jump Rope
A dedicated, customized jump rope is non-negotiable for improving speed and stringing together double-unders. Having a rope cut to your exact height makes all the difference.
Our Picks: RPM Session 4 (high-speed, sleek, best for athletes who already have double-unders down) or the Weighted RX SmartGear Rope (great for slowing the rope down and feeling the cycle if you are still learning or struggling with consistency).
4. Knee Sleeves
Knee sleeves provide compression and warmth, which improves blood flow around the joint. They give proprioceptive feedback (a feeling of stability) and keep your knees warm between sets of squats and lunges.
Our Picks: Rogue 5mm (for general support and mobility) or Rehband (a classic favorite known for durability).
3. Weight Belts
A weight belt is an external cue used to brace your core—it does not do the work for you. It gives your core muscles something to press against, helping you generate more intra-abdominal pressure for heavier lifts, especially squats and deadlifts.
Our Recommendations:
Best Women’s Specific Belt: The Rogue Tia-Clair Toomey Belt (designed for a specific fit and comfort).
High-Quality All-Around: 2POOD (known for its durable nylon and quick-release buckle).
2. Give the Gift of Fitness: Adults
Looking for a meaningful, life-changing gift? Give the gift of health and community!
Holiday Beginner’s Bundle: The perfect start for someone looking to try CrossFit or strength training in the new year. (2 Personal Training session + 1 Month Unlimited Classes at Anthem)
Personal Training Sessions: Custom, one-on-one time with an Anthem coach to dial in technique or target specific goals. (5, 10, or 20 packs available)
🎁 Bonus Gift! For every Beginners Bundle or Personal Training package purchased, we’ll throw in a FREE Anthem Hat or Shirt to wrap and give as a physical gift while supplies last!
DM us and we’ll send you the link for the Beginners Bundle or Personal Training Package of your choice.
1. Give the Gift of Fitness: Kids/Teens
Set up the young people in your life for a healthy future!
Anthem Kids Winter Session $150 (January 8 – March 12, Thursdays 6-6:30pm): Enroll them in our program focused on building inner and outer strength, healthy habits, and a genuine love for movement in a positive environment. Limited to 10 athletes. Purchase here.
Anthem Teens Winter Session $335 (January 6 – March 12, Tues & Thurs 6:30-7:30pm, 20 Sessions): Give your teenager the ultimate athletic advantage. The Anthem Teens Strength and Conditioning program focuses on building functional inner and outer strength, reducing injury risk, and fostering a lifelong love of movement. We use a supportive, positive environment to teach proper lifting technique, enhance speed and agility, and build unbreakable confidence that lasts far beyond the gym. Whether they play sports or just want to feel strong, this is their foundation for success. Purchase here.
Happy shopping from your Anthem Coaching Team! We can’t wait to see you rocking some new gear in the gym soon.
