gift ideas for weightlifters

Looking for ideas for a weightlifter or gym lover? This is the post for you!

Whether it be Christmas or a birthday, there is always a reason to give a gift.

Matching gifts to people’s personalities or getting the ideal gifts that they will use is always a great idea. However, it’s not always easy especially when you’re shopping for a particular type of person, like a weightlifter or a gym lover.

They have specific wants and needs that the average person might not understand. If you’re shopping for a weightlifter or powerlifter and need help figuring out what to get them, this fitness gift guide can give you some ideas to make your search a little easier.

So without further delay, let’s get to the list:

1. Nutri Bullet Blender SystemNutri Bullet

The fitness fanatic in your life most likely makes shakes and smoothies. This can be a chore but if they have a superior blender like this Nutri Bullet their life will be a lot simpler.

If you’ve ever tried to mix peanut butter or a weight gainer in a shaker bottle, you will understand.

A blender can blend thick protein shakes or weight gainers quickly. They can also use it to get their daily servings of fruits and vegetables with smoothies.

The Nuri Bullet is a very popular blender and is known to smoothly and quickly process fruits, vegetables, nuts, and anything else thanks to its strong 600-watt motor and high-torque power base. It can also be used to shred foods, grind, and chop ingredients.

Along with the blender, they’ll also get three cups (one tall, two short), a flat blade and an emulsifying blade, two lids for the cups, two lip rings, a pocket nutritionist, a recipe book, and a user manual.

The Nutri Bullet in particular is:

  • Easy to use
  • Dishwasher-safe
  • Has a 1-year warranty

2. Adjustable Dumbbell Weight SetBowflex Dumbbells

If you’re looking for a gift for a beloved weightlifter who works out at home or has a home gym, then consider an adjustable dumbbell set.

The Bowflex adjustable dumbbells offer a weight range from as low as 5 pounds up to 52 pounds. They can be adjusted in 2.5-pound increments up to 25 pounds allowing users to quickly move from one type of exercise to another.

Ultimately, this set merges 15 different weight sets into one system saving both money and space.

It also saves a lot of time when compared to standard adjustable dumbbells.

With these dumbbells, you simply adjust the dial on the weights to increase or decrease the resistance. There is no longer a need to unscrew collars, take off, and put on weight plates.

They are more expensive than normal dumbbells but they make workouts much more efficient and less of a hassle. For additional help, they’ll also have access to a free Bowflex app with trainer-led exercises, making these the best gift for muscle building.

Other great options include Powerblock or Ironmaster.

3. Gym BagUnder Armour Bag

Any weightlifter will tell you that their gym bag has seen better days.

Most gym bags are constantly being dragged to and from the gym, thrown in their car, and stuffed full of equipment, food, and clothes. A gym lover’s bag takes a lot of abuse and can break down from constant use.

Consider this gift for gym rats so they can replace their tattered workout bag.

This particular bag by Under Armour features a water-resistant finish, abrasion-resistant sides and bottom, and a padded shoulder strap. A top-grab handle to make it more comfortable to carry even when it’s weighted down with gym gear.

There are also multiple compartments including a vented pocket for sweaty gym clothes, a mesh pocket, and a zippered organizational pocket to hold various fitness accessories.

The duffle bag is the third version of Under Armour’s bag featuring updates based on customer suggestions and industry innovations. It comes in different sizes so there is something for everyone.

Some of the positive attributes of this gym bag are:

  • Fits plenty of things with room to spare
  • Material is easy to wash by hand
  • Withstands constant use without damage

4. A Tank Top

While equipment and supplements are nice, sometimes your bodybuilding buddy needs new workout clothes. These are practical gifts that are great if you’re on a budget or don’t want to splurge on expensive items. They can also make great novelty or joke weightlifting gifts.

A simple tank top can go a long way.

Tank tops allow for more movement during a workout session and can be more comfortable than short sleeve t-shirts which can make some people feel too hot. Let’s face it, they also allow your hardworking friend to show off their muscles.

This cotton top is made of medium fabric for comfort and breathability to help the wearer feel cool while they exercise. It comes in a wide range of sizes from small to double extra large, features a solid color design (available in different colors), and is completely machine washable.

5. Gym Training PantsAdidas Tiro Training Pants

Gymgoers will either wear training pants, shorts, or leggings.

These training pants from Adidas use climacool ventilation and have zippers on the calves to allow for better movement.

They’re made of comfortable double-knit polyester and feature an elastic waist with a mesh insert and a drawstring tie. There are also front-zip pockets, ribbing on the legs, and Adidas’s signature three stripes along the pants legs.

They are made to fit close to the body to not interfere with exercises making them ideal for athletes who are constantly moving. They come in various sizes and colors and are machine washable.

6. Under Armour Training ShortsUnder Armour Shorts

These shorts by Under Armour will also make a great present for a weightlifter.

They are comfortable and breathable while also wicking away sweat. So the wearer stays cool and dry as they exercise.

Available in a wide range of sizes, these training shorts are made to fit loosely to provide comfort and allow for better movement, too. More so, the shorts offer sun protection through the UPF 30+ material.

While the shorts aren’t lined, they do feature mesh pockets, an internal drawstring, and an encased elastic waistband.

7. Workout Compression T-ShirtUnder Armour HeatGear Compression Shirt

Compression t-shirts are great for bodybuilders looking for clothes to offer some support.

This particular shirt by Under Armour is meant to fit tight to feel like a second skin. It features a four-way stretchable design that is meant to provide a better range of motion while remaining tight to the body.

The material is 100 percent polyester that is lightweight and soft but can melt in extreme heat posing a risk to the wearer in these instances.

In addition to the compression and comfort of the shirt, it also features a moisture transport system that will wick away sweat to keep the wearer dry and cooler than other shirts.

Anti-odor technology also helps it smell fresh and prevents microbes from growing and causing odors, making it a great gift for a weightlifting boyfriend.

8. Wireless HeadphonesWireless Earphones

Most people love listening to music while they work out. It keeps them motivated and moving while also helping them tune out the outside world.

A good pair of wireless headphones can be useful since they allow the wearer to listen to their favorite songs without worrying about headphone wires getting in their way.

These SoundPEATS earphones offer up to eight hours of music, and 100 hours of standby time, and are compatible with iPhones and Androids. They use Bluetooth technology, feature magnets to hold the earbuds together when not in use and take anywhere from an hour to two hours to fully charge with a USB adaptor. They can make the perfect weightlifting Christmas present.

Some of the advantages of these headphones are:

  • Comfort fit from silicone materials and an ergonomic design
  • Sweat-resistant to ensure they work even during outdoor workouts
  • In-line buttons and microphone for controlling volume and answering calls
  • Noise-canceling technology blocks out external sounds
  • Great customer service from the company

9. Weightlifting ShoesAdidas Powerlift 3.1 Shoes

This could be one of the best gifts for a powerlifter because a good pair of weightlifting shoes can be invaluable to them. These particular shoes are made specifically for lifting heavy weights.

You can regularly see these worn by pro powerlifters.

They are extra wide which will let the foot spread properly while lifting. They also have an elevated heel for deeper squats and improved posture for deadlifts. Plus, they have a flexible toe for comfort and maneuverability and a synthetic leather top for improved durability, and ankle support to prevent injuries.

For stability during lifting, there is also a secure lace closure, mid-foot strap, and wedged midsole. The shoe is quite breathable, too, featuring a mesh collar, tongue, and interior lining to allow for better airflow. They are a great gift for powerlifters.

Read more about gym shoes here

10. Foam RollerFoam Roller

A good foam roller can make a superb weightlifting Christmas gift.

They’re made to help muscles recover from strenuous workouts. They can also provide some pain relief while helping to improve flexibility. They’re inexpensive and incredibly beneficial for bodybuilders and powerlifters.

TriggerPoint GRID foam rollers are constructed out of a hollow, rigid core with a multi-density foam exterior that will not break down or lose its shape over time. They’re used by massage therapists, trainers, and coaches for their therapeutic benefits like triggering blood and oxygen flow.

The larger foam rollers support up to 500 pounds while the Mini model supports up to 250 pounds

11. Pull Up/Dip BeltHarbinger Dip Belt

If your weightlifter already has plenty of dumbbells, they might not have a  sturdy weighted dip belt that can be used for dips and pull-ups.

This specific model by Harbinger is made of sturdy polypropylene secured to a chain with strong steel grommets. It’s made complete with a carabiner mechanism to attach weights to it.

Using a dip belt is one of the best ways to work the lats with pull ups.

It’s made to provide support while remaining comfortable so it can be used confidently during workouts. With these particular dip belts, you won’t have to worry about knowing your loved one’s size since it’s made to fit everyone.

12. Shaker Bottle

All gym junkies and weightlifters drink protein shakes or weight gainers.

The simplest way to mix a protein shake is to use a shaker bottle. Even if they have a few shaker bottles, they will probably still appreciate another one. Most lifters use freebie bottles that are not the best quality. So by purchasing them a good quality shaker, you will be doing them a favor.

I purchased a quality shaker 13 years ago and I still use it daily.

They also tend to go missing quite frequently or break. Another issue with shakers is that they get a smell after a few days of not being washed and are best disposed of.

Want to step up from a shaker bottle? See the Vortex Portable Mixer below.

13. Vortex Portable MixerVortex Portable Mixer

Bodybuilders love their protein shakes. This portable mixer by Vortex takes those shakers to the next level.

This comes with a small rechargeable motor that can be charged with a micro-USB cable (which comes with the mixer). It’s lightweight and quiet while still being powerful and efficient.

The mixer is also easy to clean by adding warm water and a small bit of dishwashing liquid and turning on the mixer. It will break up any lumps left behind from their protein shake.

It features an integrated storage pod that is meant to hold the supplement powder before the mixer is activated to mix everything with a push of a button. Sturdy seals stop any leaks from the mouthpiece, too.

The mixer can also be used for other things including mixing scrambled eggs, pancake batter, bulletproof coffee, and similar recipes. Overall, the mixer aims to get the best out of supplements without lumps being left behind.

Some of the notable pros of this mixer are:

  • 1-year warranty
  • Can drink while the storage pod is still on
  • Recharges fully in about 90 minutes

14. Kitchen ScalesKitchen Scales

While you may think that every bodybuilder would only love gifts that help them work out more efficiently, they will also love kitchen gadgets that help them eat properly.

Kitchen scales like this one by Ozeri can help them measure their food so they can track their calories and macronutrients while they prepare their food.

This specific battery-powered scale is easy to use and can weigh foods up to 11.24 pounds using 0.05-ounce increments. It also features different units of measurement allowing conversions between grams, pounds, ounces, and milliliters that are displayed on the clear LCD screen.

Uniquely, this scale can also subtract the weight of a container from the food automatically by using the precision tare button.

People who use the scale note the following pros:

  • Can accommodate larger bowls and foods
  • The refined chrome finish is aesthetically pleasing
  • Provides immediate and accurate measurements
  • Inexpensive yet a high-quality item

15. Thick Bar GripsFat Gripz

Even if your bodybuilding loved one already has arms strong enough to uproot trees, chances are they will continue to build up their arm strength.

Thick bar grips like Fat Gripz can help them in their efforts. These are thick wraps that they can put around their free weights or cable attachments/handles to increase their diameter.

It’s been proven that bars with larger diameters lead to more muscle activation that then leads to greater gains.

By giving these grips, you’ll be helping them bolster their arm strength without buying them the standard set of weights.

These specific grips are used by professional athletes, military operatives, UFC fighters, and champion bodybuilders. They are made using military-grade compound rubber making them durable enough to withstand constant use. The grips help people who may be able to lift heavy weights but have poor grip strength allowing them to push themselves further than they could before.

Some benefits of the Fat Gripz are:

  • Durable enough for daily use
  • Fits most standard-size bars and dumbbells
  • Helps prevent elbow pain during lifts

16. Food Storage and Meal Management BagFood Storage and Meal Management Bag

Athletes’ diets are just as important as their workout routines. To help them in their efforts, consider getting them a good meal prep set.

These food storage containers and bags by Isolator Fitness make a great gift for those who cook their meals in advance and pack them up for work, school, or general travel. The set includes six stackable food containers in various sizes, ice packs to maintain freshness, and a carrying bag that fits up to three of the larger (38-ounce) containers.

The bag features a padded shoulder strap for extra comfort as well as a carry handle. The two leak-proof ice bricks are meant to be slipped into a pocket in the bag so the food stays fresh while on the move. The bag itself comes with a lifetime warranty that covers the stitching and zippers.

The containers are durable, leak-resistant, microwave/dishwasher safe, and freezable. The bag has accessible exterior pockets for non-perishable items or personal items. The insulation in the bag means that the ice brick can keep food cool for up to 16 hours.

17. Portable Dip BarsLebert Portable Dip Bars

If you’re buying a gift for someone with more space in their home for larger pieces of equipment, a dip bar can be a great addition to their collection of equipment.

This bar by Lebert Fitness is a portable, yet sturdy model that they can use to strengthen their core and arms with their body weight. It offers a full-body workout that will help to build muscle and strength through some of the most important exercises including dips, pushups, pull-ups, L-sits, and more.

This model is lightweight, sturdy, and easy to assemble while also being sturdy enough to support up to 400 pounds. More so, the XL version of this bar is three inches taller making it ideal for taller people.

There are also foam grips to help prevent fatigue and discomfort while also providing friction. An instructional DVD is included to help those who may prefer some guidance in their workouts.

18. Lifting StrapsRip Tones Wrist Wraps

Another great accessory for the powerlifter in your life is some lifting straps. There are a few differences between the uses of lifting straps and gloves so be sure to find out which they prefer.

They allow the user to increase their weight limit by providing additional support by essentially attaching the weight to them. They’re also useful for people recovering from an injury who may need some help getting back to full strength.

The Rip Toned straps are adjustable and also machine washable for easy maintenance. They can be used with barbells, kettlebells, bumper plates, and similar equipment.

The straps are easy to attach and detach allowing you to transition from one weight-training exercise to another with ease. It’s great for everything from powerlifting to CrossFit. While there are a lot of wrist straps on the market, if you’re looking to give a quality gift that will last, these are the better choice.

Some of the pros noted are:

  • Strong stitching prevents fraying
  • Endorsed by professional powerlifter Kevin Weiss
  • Lifetime replacement guarantee
  • More durable than cotton straps

19. Body Measuring Tape + Body Fat CalipersBody Fat Calipers

A more out-of-the-box gift for bodybuilders is a body measuring and body fat caliper set.

Fitness-minded people are constantly tracking their progress. They often record their measurements to see how they’re improving over time.

This set by Lift Heavy Fitness comes with a standard measuring tape and fat calipers but they’ll also get a downloadable chart to help them track their measurements to see how they’re progressing.

These tools are easy to use. They measure the thickness of skin folds in key areas. They are also quite affordable so if you’re on a budget but are still looking to get weightlifting-themed gifts, this set is a decent choice.

It also makes a great gift for a powerlifting coach or personal trainer as they can use it with their clients.

20. Supplements/Weight GainersGold Standard Whey

What bodybuilder wouldn’t love a bottle of their favorite protein powder or weight gainer?

While you may want to stick to their favorite brand, this particular supplement by Optimum Nutrition is one of the best on the market making it a great gift. This is 100 percent whey protein and comes in 20 different flavors.

It contains 24 grams of protein, 5.5 grams of BCAAs, and 4 grams of glutamine in each serving making it the perfect protein shake for before or after a workout.

It comes in a variety of flavors and mixed will too!

Optimum Nutrition is one of the most trusted and effective brands in the supplement game so you can be sure that you’re giving a quality product that will work. Not only will they get plenty of protein but the amino acids in the formula will help feed their muscles and allow the protein to be used by them properly.

The protein, amino acids, and glutamine are pure and naturally occurring instead of chemically produced making this a better option than other similar products.

21. George Foreman GrillGeorge Foreman Grill

You’re likely already familiar with the George Foreman Grill, but not many realize that it’s a great gift for the bodybuilder on your Christmas list.

This particular, larger model is 72 square inches and can make five servings of food at a time. As bodybuilders need their protein, this portable grill can easily allow them to cook up multiple portions of their favorite meat at a time.

George Foreman grills are great for quick meals and meal prepping.

More so, it’s easy to clean thanks to the non-stick, removable, dishwasher-safe grill plates. Your loved one can happily cook chicken breasts without worrying about eating too much fat. This is because of the sloping nature of the grill that drains the fat while leaving behind the lean meat.

The George Foreman Grill has been a popular kitchen tool for years and it doesn’t show signs of decline as each new model has improvements that make it more convenient and efficient. In this new model, the plates have been upgraded with a ceramic coating that makes it, not only non-stick but also more durable and stain-resistant.

Besides the grill and the plates, they’ll also get a drip tray that will catch the excess fat extracted from the meat to make cleanup even easier.

22. Arm Blaster

Biceps are important to most lifters.

So an arm blaster could be the perfect Christmas or birthday gift for a gym-goer who cares about their arms. They help to train the biceps with better form and at a higher intensity.

An arm curl blaster is an effective but very simple piece of equipment. By keeping the elbows in a single position, they help weightlifters to isolate the bicep to get the perfect curl for the most effective muscle activation.

They can be used in a home gym. They are also a suitable size to keep in a gym bag to use in a commercial gym.

There are quite a few arm blasters on the market. I recommend the one made by DMoose as it’s made of quality materials with a lifetime warranty so it should last forever.

23. Deadlift Socks

Socks are a common Christmas gift. But why not switch it up and get some deadlift socks for a gym enthusiast?

A problem that many lifters have (myself included) when performing a deadlift is the bar scraping again our legs. I’ve seen many people with cuts on their shins because of this.

Deadlift socks are designed to prevent this. They provide a protective layer between the bar and the legs so there are no more abrasions from the barbell.

My favorites are the MOXY brand.

24. Water Bottle

Most lifters will know that dehydration will reduce the body’s ability to build muscle, burn fat, and affect performance significantly.

So staying hydrated is often a priority for a bodybuilder or powerlifter.

Generally, men should be drinking 3.7 liters per day. Most fitness fanatics consume more than that.

It can be challenging to drink if you are busy, or if you forget. A solution is to keep a water bottle with you for convenience and as a reminder.

I use the Yeti Rambler which is big enough so I don’t need to keep refilling it. It also has great insulation to keeps my cold drinks cool or hot during the day.

25. Weightlifting Gloves

If your fitness friend has rough hands or calluses, a great gift idea might be some workout gloves.

Gym gloves help to protect the hands from the friction involved in lifting weights. They also improve grip as sweaty hands and weightlifting don’t mix.

Most lifting gloves also include a wrist strap to support the wrists when under a heavy load. They’re also good for providing some protection for the hands against bacteria that might be on gym equipment. There are a few different styles:

  • Standard gloves – cover the palm and half of the fingers. These are the most common style.
  • Minimalist gloves – cover just the area that has the most contact with a barbell. They are designed to be removed quickly and are usually used by CrossFit enthusiasts.
  • Full finger gloves – Similar to standard gloves but cover the whole finger too.

There are women’s gym gloves designed for ladies as well as designs for men. So there are many options for the perfect Christmas or birthday gift.

For advanced lifters, consider a set of wrist wraps to aid them with deadlifts and heavy lifting.

26. Gym Mirror

No this isn’t a joke gift… well actually it could be!

Bodybuilders love checking themselves in the mirror. But they often use them to check their progress and see areas for improvement. See our post on why gyms have mirrors.

Apart from practicing posing, a mirror can also be an essential part of a home gym. Ensuring that you are using the correct form is extremely important for weightlifting.

You don’t need to go for an expensive commercial mirror in this case. There are plenty of cheap gym mirrors on the market. A normal full-length mirror could do just fine. If you have more to spend, a wider full-length mirror could be better.

27. Fitness Tracker

Fitness trackers and sports devices have become very popular with new devices being released on the market regularly.

These devices can usually:

  • Count the number of steps taken
  • Track the calories burnt
  • Track sleep
  • Display notifications from your phone

They also can add fitness goals and track progress towards them. Fitness trackers are very useful for any gym junkie or fitness enthusiast due to their diverse functions. They also help to provide motivation.

If you get a good quality one for a weightlifter or bodybuilder, you can be sure that it will be well received and used. Fitbit is generally the most popular when it comes to this technology.

For gym-goers, the Fitbit Charge 4 is likely the best option due to its superb features.

28. Olympic Fractional Plates

By giving fractional plates, you will be helping them with their progress.

These small weights are useful for more experienced lifters who are seeking every little bit of advancement they can get.

Normal weight increments start at 2.5lbs. But for elite weightlifters, who are close to the maximum weight that they can lift, adding this amount can be too much of a jump. This would most likely result in them performing fewer reps.

Fractional weights allow users to add smaller increments so that they are adding tiny amounts of weight at a time. These start at 0.25lbs and go up to 1.0lbs.

20. Jump Rope

A good jump rope is effective for cardio and fat burning. If your weightlifting friend is interested in cutting, this could be a perfect gift idea.

Jump ropes are portable and can be put into a gym bag to be used anywhere. A good quality rope will last a long time and countless hours of skipping.

I recommend the Everlast rope. It features good handle grips, an adjustable length, and removable steel weights. It’s a well-made piece of equipment from a well-known brand that should last a very long time.

30. Pill Organizer

Most fitness enthusiasts take vitamins and other supplements every day. Which usually means getting tablets from a bunch of different bottles regularly.

A pill organizer can help reduce the need for this. It can help to remind them so they don’t forget. It’s also a good choice for those who want to get a useful gift while on a budget.

The TookMag organizer looks stylish and has big enough compartments to hold essential fish oils, creatine, and large multivitamin tablets. Each compartment also has AM & PM subcompartments for better organization.

The compartment labels use high-end printing technology to ensure they don’t come off while being tossed about in a gym bag.

31. Gym Membership

If you need an excellent gift idea for someone who works out at a commercial gym, this could be what you are looking for…

By paying for their gym membership for some time (maybe 6 months or a year) you will be getting them a Christmas, birthday, or anniversary gift that they will use and appreciate.

You can phone their gym for details. It will be more thoughtful and surprising than giving them the cash to do it themselves.

Final Thoughts

Before looking at specific products you have to understand how a bodybuilder thinks. When it comes to Christmas gifts this is as simple as knowing what they’d put on their Christmas list. Of course, you could always ask the person what they want and buy that, but half the excitement is unexpectedly surprising someone you love with something they want.

Thinking specifically about what a bodybuilder may want or need isn’t as simple as buying them a tub of protein powder or—less personal—handing them a gift card. There are a lot of different things that they would love to get as a gift.

Things like supplements, workout clothes, and different equipment can all make great gifts. Think about things that they wouldn’t necessarily buy for themselves or things that you’ve heard them talk about and they’ve been putting off for some reason. However, if you’re unfamiliar with supplements or equipment, it’s best to talk to someone who knows about them as one brand can differ from another dramatically despite seeming like the same product.

If you can, find out what your friend or relative already uses in terms of supplements and equipment and stick to the brands they prefer. This will ensure that you’ll give them a gift you know they’d appreciate and use.

As you can see, there are a lot of different things you can get your favorite bodybuilder for Christmas. Whether they’ve told you what they’re looking for or you’re looking to surprise him, be sure to check out these great products or use them to start your search for similar items. Remember, be sure to read user reviews and product descriptions carefully so you know that you’re getting exactly what you’re looking for.