As News Of Los Angeles‘s resident fitness expert, I’ve tested a wide range of workout gear to help people meet their 2026 goals. The following list highlights the tools that truly made a difference for me and for those I recommend to friends and family.
At a Glance
- The most portable recovery device is the Hyperice Normatec Go Boots.
- The Apple Watch Series 11 adds FDA-cleared hypertension alerts and a longer battery.
- The Tonal 2 replaces an entire home gym with a single, AI-guided machine.
- Why it matters: These gadgets combine convenience, advanced health tracking, and full-body training in one place.
Hyperice Normatec Go Boots
The Hyperice Normatec Go Boots are TSA-friendly and small enough to fit in a backpack. They target the calves, making them ideal for a petite user who finds the standard Normatec legs too large.
- TSA-friendly: can travel in carry-on luggage.
- Rechargeable with a 3-hour battery life.
- Useful after a run or a tough leg day.
The boots help users recover on the go, offering compression therapy without the bulk of a full-size unit.
Apple Watch Series 11
The Apple Watch Series 11 is the newest Apple Watch model, featuring FDA-cleared hypertension alerts, a longer battery, sleep scoring, and a scratch-resistant screen.
“The Series 11 felt like picking up where I left off from the last Apple Watch iteration,” said News Of Los Angeles Lead Writer Vanessa Hand Orellana.
Key upgrades include:
- FDA-cleared hypertension notifications.
- Quantifiable sleep data based on clinical guidance.
- Longer battery life for multi-day use.
This watch is a solid choice for those upgrading from an older model or new to smartwatches.
Theragun Mini 2
The Theragun Mini 2 is a pocket-sized massage gun that packs a powerful punch.
- Three massage heads: standard ball, dampener, thumb.
- Three settings, still strong even at the lowest.
- TSA-friendly and fits in a purse or backpack.
“The Theragun Mini 2 is tiny yet powerful,” said News Of Los Angeles writer David Carnoy. It’s a favorite for on-the-go muscle relief.
Theragun Pro (5th Generation)
The Theragun PRO G5 is a heavy-duty massage gun aimed at serious athletes.
- Six attachments: standard ball, thumb, micro-point, super soft, dampener, wedge.
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
- Customizable preset programs.
“If you love to work out hard and take recovery seriously, this massage gun is the best gift you can buy yourself,” said Marcus L. Bennett.
Oura Ring 4
The Oura Ring 4 features a titanium exterior and interior, unlike its predecessor.
- Tracks stress, heart rate, menstrual cycle, and sleep.
- Provides a readiness score after about a month of data.
- Helps users adjust sleep schedules based on insights.
As a mom who often struggles with restful sleep, the ring’s recommendations were invaluable.
Tonal 2
The Tonal 2 replaces dumbbells, barbells, and other equipment with a single smart home gym.
- Up to 250 pounds of resistance.
- AI through 13 sensors tracks form and technique.
- Includes a new Aero feature for cardio.
- Thousands of on-demand and live workouts.
The price tag is $4,295. For dedicated strength trainers with space and budget, the Tonal 2 offers everything in one machine.
Peloton Bike
Peloton remains the top exercise bike thanks to its community and live classes.
- Easy setup and integration.
- Leaderboards and friendly competition.
- Motivational instructors like Alex Toussaint and Robin Arzon.
- Regularly updates workout programs.
Peloton’s social aspect keeps users engaged and prevents boredom.
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2
The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 earbuds deliver excellent audio and noise-canceling.
- Battery life can last weeks between charges.
- Noise-canceling keeps music immersive.
- Ear hook design keeps them secure during workouts.
- Supports phone calls without connection issues.
They’re a top pick for anyone who wants crisp audio that stays put.
Future App
The Future app connects you with a virtual personal trainer.
- $200 a month, $100 for the first month with the current deal.
- Users complete an assessment intake form.
- Trainers offer personalized programs and weekly workouts.
- Video demonstrations accompany exercises.
I used the app through pregnancy and postpartum, and it helped me resume safe exercise.
Key Takeaways
- Recovery tools like the Hyperice Normatec Go Boots and Theragun Mini 2 are portable and effective.
- Wearables such as the Apple Watch Series 11 and Oura Ring 4 provide advanced health insights.
- A full-body smart gym like the Tonal 2 offers convenience for serious strength training.
- Community-driven bikes and audio gear enhance motivation and focus.
- Virtual training apps like Future provide personalized guidance at a low cost.
Choosing the right gear depends on your goals, space, and budget. These options cover a range of needs, from on-the-go recovery to full-body strength training and personalized coaching.
