Exercise trampolines are a great way to sneak in some extra cardio in a fun, low-impact way. This type of exercise is called rebounding, and it only requires one piece of equipment—a mini trampoline or rebounder. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, but walking and biking aren’t your only options.
Jason Yachanin, the co-owner and a trainer at Perspirology, tells us that rebounding provides a low-impact, continuous workout that’s great for people who struggle to pay attention during workouts. Holly Roser, a certified personal trainer and owner of the Holly Roser Fitness Studio, explains that rebounding can also improve cardiovascular healthand balance while helping you lose weight. Rebounding also offers a full-body strength and conditioning workout when combined with strength moves like squats and lunges, and it’s also a good option for anyone who struggles with knee pain from exercise. Natasha Caleel Freutel, a certified corrective exercise specialist and owner of fitness studio Fit Mama Santa Barbara, adds that rebounders can also provide an excellent workout for the cardiovascular system, legs, core, arms, and back. Plus, exercise trampolines can be just as effective as resistance training for improving knee muscle strength, according to a December 2019 study in Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport.
To find the best exercise trampolines, we tested a total of 13 products for 8 hours, with an on-site personal trainer present to supervise our testing. Each trampoline was evaluated for sturdiness, quality, comfortability, and bounce. A physical therapist from our Medical Expert Board reviewed this article for medical and scientific accuracy.
Not all rebounders are built the same. So when shopping for a rebounder, there are a few important things to be aware of.
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Size: While most rebounders feature a diameter of 40 inches, the jumping area is usually a bit smaller. While Roser notes that a larger trampoline provides the space for wider jumps, it’s important to factor in that they will also take up more space.
Type of Bounce: Exercise trampolines come in either spring or bungee options. Spring options can offer more bounce, but bungee options may be easier on the joints.
Noise Level: While many options are quiet, it’s still important to consider the overall sound level of your rebounder, especially if you don’t live alone or you have downstairs neighbors. Generally speaking, bungee options are quieter than spring options.
Tension: A more firm pick will result in less bounce while more a bouncier pick may make you jump too high. Some picks are adjustable so you can find your own sweet spot.
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The reasonably priced JumpSport 350 earned the top spot on our list for its overall performance, and it also comes recommended by Freutel who likes that it is adjustable for your personal own demands. We found it to be exceptionally stable, while promoting comfort in every position we tried it in. A 16 gauge steel tubing promoted durability that stood out to us, and the arched legs which are designed for stability also lived up to the description.
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In our experience, this pick had just the right amount of tension and bounce. However, if you find it’s not right for you, it’s important to note that it has three adjustable tension settings to optimize it for your own specific jumping needs. Plus, the cords are designed with silence in mind. Importantly, Yachanin tells us that JumpSport is the only brand used at Perspirology, and that it is always working to update and upgrade their models.
A 39 inch diameter is smaller than other options that we tested, so you will be more limited in jumping space.
Product Details
Frame Size: 39 inches
Maximum Weight: 265 pounds
Foldable: No
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This remarkably low priced trampoline from Fitness Gear includes sturdylegs and the mesh didn’t move during usage, so we experienced no instability when jumping. In fact, our tester found that this budget pick was the most stable of the five trampolines they had tested. It also experienced no squeaking, and while it doesn’t fold, it’s smaller than other picks, with a frame size of 36 inches, so it can still be stored.
The tension of this model was tight, and it had a particularly consistent bounce profile, which left us feeling in control of our workouts. Additionally, the metal legs, the thick mesh, and the thick cotton and nylon combo for the cover combined for a well made feel despite the lower price. Plus, a cotton and nylon cover in the space between the mesh and the hooks made us feel more safe.
The smaller size may be limiting in terms of the movements that you can perform.
Product Details
Frame Size: 36 inches
Maximum Weight: 220 pounds
Foldable: No
Acon
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Standard exercise trampolines are usually around 40 inches wide, but this model from Acon is substantially larger, coming in at 55 inches wide. Roser notes that this additional size means this pick allows for exercises like jump squats and lunge jumps while the sturdiness allows for things like push-ups, step-ups, and tricep dips. We found it to be extremely stable, encouraging us to perform a wide variety of movements due to the additional space. And despite the size, we found it to be surprisingly lightweight.
This pick is also well-built; the frame and suspension system is patent-pending for its stability and safe but quiet landing, and that stability made our tester, who is a trampoline newbie, feel extra safe.
The spacious design will not work for people that are living in cramped quarters.
Product Details
Frame Size: 55 inches
Maximum Weight: 300 pounds
Foldable: No
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Another reasonably priced option, this pic from DARCHEN is perfect for anyone looking to dip their toe into the world of trampolines without making a sizable investment. While particularly lightweight, we were still impressed by how stable it was; the rubber feet kept it sturdy during usage and we found it to be effortless to carry.
We were able to easily slide it across the floor when we wanted to, but it didn’t move during usage. That level of portability earned it higher marks from us. Finally, we appreciated that this option was noiseless, so you won’t have to worry about disrupting your neighbors when rebounding.
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It is a no frills pick that doesn’t come with any special features or higher quality materials.
Product Details
Frame Size: 40 inches
Maximum Weight: 450 pounds
Foldable: No
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Bungee trampolines can feel less shocking on the joints when compared to models that use springs. We particularly liked this pick from Bellicon, which impressed us by offering more bounce than tension. In fact, we were impressed by how much bounce we were able to achieve with the smaller sized pick. Additionally, at no point did we feel unsafe or like this was anything less than stable when jumping.
This option uses high quality materials that felt safe and sturdy for us in testing. It also boasts a simple set up with easy to follow instructions.
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The bounce may be too high for some people considering the smaller size of the trampoline
Product Details
Frame Size: 39 inches
Maximum Weight: 440 pounds
Foldable: No
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Weighing just 22 pounds, this pick was super easy to move around. And, as Roser notes, that lightweight profile makes it a good choice for smaller spaces. Importantly, Roser adds that while the legs fold when not in use, they do lock in place during usage, so you can feel safe. In testing, we thoroughly enjoyed this trampoline for its bounce, quality, comfort, and portability.
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The patented bungee system has roughly twice as many connectors as other models, ensuring a soft, silent landing. In terms of quality, it held up well to being put through workouts. The springs were taut during jumping, and our advanced tester said they would recommend this to beginners as well.
When we did ski jumps, we felt the legs shift, making this slightly less stable than other picks.
Product Details
Frame Size: 40 inches
Maximum Weight: 330 pounds
Foldable: Yes
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If you’re looking to enjoy some sunshine while you do your bouncing, the Sunny Health & Fitness Indoor and Outdoor Exercise Trampoline is our pick for you. It came mostly pre-assembled, requiring only that we attach the legs. In terms of performance, it was highly stable, with good shock absorption from the springs, a consistent bounce, and it even enabled us to vigorously bounce without it moving.
This adjustable pick comes in a square design intended to optimize and maximize jumping space. We also experienced no wobbling or squeaking.
It is not collapsible, so you will want to make sure that you have ample space to store it.
Product Details
Frame Size: 36 inches
Maximum Weight: 285 pounds
Foldable: No
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In our experience, this trampoline excelled at maintaining a quiet performance during usage, due in part to the highly elastic bungees used by Bellicon. While some trampolines feel too rigid and others are too bouncy, we found this one to strike a perfect balance, being bouncy enough to jump high and sturdy enough to do stable squats.
If you’re looking for some extra jumping area, this one boasts a 49-inch diameter, making it more than wide enough for all of our workouts. Additionally, customers have the option of purchasing ultra-strong bungees to support weights of up to 440 pounds which is among the highest weight capacities we’ve seen.
This pick is priced much higher than most of the other options on our list.
Product Details
Frame Size: 49 inches
Maximum Weight: 440 pounds
Foldable: Yes
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Despite being a “mini”, this trampoline proved to offer stability and a robust 330 pound weight limit with its 40 inch option. Our tester also found this model to be extremely sturdy and comfortable, noting that the safety bar kept them feeling safe during usage. And for customizability, that bar can be adjusted between four different heights.
Even as a mini, we still found that this pick was spacious enough to accommodate our desired workouts, and the bounce to tension ratio was ideal.
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Some people find that the folding process is tedious.
Product Details
Frame Size: 40 inches
Maximum Weight: 331 lbs
Foldable: Yes
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For a higher weight limit, BCAN’s 450/550 LBS Foldable Mini Trampoline is our pick. It’s available in either a 40 inch option with a 450 pound weight limit, or a 48 inch option with a 550 pound weight limit. Assembly was simple; all of the necessary tools were included, and the instructions were clear, with detailed up close pictures to guide us. We found this option to have excellent overall stability, and the bungees worked well to provide ample spring for a good workout while still feeling perfectly safe. When we tested out side to side movements we didn’t experience any shifting.
The mat also proved to be spacious enough for us to comfortably squat or do lateral jumping exercises. In our experience, the metal parts were durable, and we didn’t need to overly rely on the handlebars due to the stability of the mat. We experienced no wobbling or squeaking of the bungees and the spacious design kept us feeling extra safe throughout usage.
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The handlebar felt somewhat loose, so we couldn’t fully rely on it fully for support and we couldn’t tighten it.
Product Details
Frame Size: 40 or 48 inches
Maximum Weight: 450/550 pounds
Foldable: Yes
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For exercisers looking to be able to safely push it to the limit, we recommend this pick from ACON Fit. The 1.5 inch thick steel piped legs proved to be highly sturdy, while the anti-slide rubber stoppers on the bottom helped to keep this rebounder even more secure, holding it fully in place during two intensive rounds of exercise.
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In terms of performance, the 30 bungee springs worked well to keep our bounce controlled while still inspiring the confidence to go for a higher intensity while exercising. Finally, this pick provided the perfect balance of support and bounce for exercises like jumping jacks, high knees, and jump squats.
The instructions aren’t detailed enough, making it complicated to assemble.
While stable and excellent for high intensity, we found that going too far to one side did cause some wobbling.
Product Details
Frame Size: 40 inches
Maximum Weight: 330 pounds
Foldable: No
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We found this option from SereneLife to be ideal for seniors for a few reasons. For starters, it arrived mostly assembled, coming with metal springs, so there was no need to attach bungees. When we jumped on it, we experienced no shifting or instability, and the tight springs lowered the overall movement, so we think it’s good to keep seniors safe with limited ranges of motion. It also felt controlled and low to the ground, and experienced no shifting.
The smaller footprint is a nice touch for people looking to avoid taking up too much space. And as a final benefit for seniors, it features an adjustable handlebar that can be adjusted up to 46 inches high.
The smaller space, while beneficial for seniors that won’t be doing larger moves, is limiting for people looking to do wider movements like jumping jacks.
While we appreciate the handrail, we felt that it could’ve been easier to adjust and it also affected the performance of the front of the trampoline when installed.
Product Details
Frame Size: 40 inches
Maximum Weight: 220 pounds
Foldable: Yes
We updated our best budget pick. Our previous pick, the Wamkos Rebounder Mini Exercise Trampoline, is no longer available. We replaced it with the Fitness Gear Mini Trampoline, a trampoline that was part of our most recent testing and received an overall 4.7 out of 5 star rating for its excellent value, stability, and durability.
We replaced the pick for the Best for Dedicated Jumpers, the Bellicon Plus Trampoline with Handle 44” with Fold-Up Legs, because it is no longer available.
In addition to the best budget pick, we added five other new products from our most recent testing: Bellicon’s 39 Inch Mini Trampoline (best bungee), Sunny Health & Fitness’ Indoor & Outdoor Exercise Trampoline (best outdoor), BCAN’s 450/550 LBS Foldable Mini Trampoline (best weight capacity), ACON Fit’s 44 Inch Rebounder (best for high impact exercises), and SereneLift’s Portable & Foldable Trampoline (best for seniors).
To date, we have tested a total of 21 products in our search for the best exercise trampolines on the market. More recently, we completed additional testing on 13 new products for eight hours to update our list and make it even more precise. In making our picks, we put the trampolines through a variety of movements including basic jumps, ACON fit squats, jumping jacks, low ski jumps, squats, and high knees. We focussed on ease of assembly, stability, bounce/tension, quality, and value to make our final picks.
Ease of assembly: From the moment we opened the trampolines, we noted how simple they were to set up. We also addressed the quality of the instructions and how easy they were to follow. We were also sure to acknowledge if tools were necessary, and if so whether they were included in the packaging or not. In the case of particularly difficult to understand steps, we made note of them and addressed how we overcame the problem.
Stability: We noted if there was any shifting in the base during usage, as well as the overall support and range of movement allowed for by the springs. We were sure to note any moments where we felt less than stable during usage, and when we put the rebounders to the test with high-impact exercises, we also made note of any shifting.
Bounce/tension: We used this as an opportunity to examine the overall tension and to examine whether the rebounders provided an effective workout while leaving us feeling in control. We were also sure to determine the consistency of the bounce across different exercises, and whether the tension created any discomfort for us, as well as if it positively or negatively affected our workout experience.
Quality: Because of the compromised position that rebounding puts us into, we were sure to focus on more durable options for safety. We looked at the materials used and the overall construction of each model, and addressed whether the springs, frame, and handles felt durable. We also noted if there were changes in the feeling of the jumping area after usage, as well as if there was any squeaking or wobbling after usage.
Value: Based on the average price of rebounders, our testers noted how worth it the models were. They noted if they would buy these models for the listed price, if they would pay more, if they would pay less, if they would buy it on sale, or if they would skip it entirely.
Our team of experts helped us to not only understand the benefits of exercise trampolines, but to understand what people should seek from them.
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Jason Yachanin, co-owner and trainer at Perspirology.
Holly Roser, certified personal trainer and owner of the Holly Roser Fitness Studio.
Natasha Caleel Freutel, certified corrective exercise specialist and owner of fitness studio Fit Mama Santa Barbara.
Weight Capacity: It’s important to pick a safer model to jump on because you don’t want something that leaves you feeling unsafe. Some models have lower weight limits in the 200-pound range, while others go as high as 500 pounds. Make sure you purchase something built for you and won’t put you in harm’s way.
Materials: The materials used in your trampoline determine its weight capacity. As Freutel explains, a sturdy and high-quality option is important because you’ll be bouncing on it. She advocates avoiding cheap metal options, which can break or bend.
Health Benefits: Jumping on an exercise trampoline is a great workout, especially for anyone looking for a low-impact form of cardio. Yochanan tells us that the high-intensity nature of rebounding builds bone density and is unique in promoting lymphatic drainage. It burns calories, increases your heart rate, and strengthens your muscles all in one. Studies have shown that mini trampoline usage positively affects overall health and is a beneficial training program for overweight individuals. Freutel explains that rebounding keeps the heart rate up and can burn calories quicker than going for a walk or a bike ride.
While we picked the 12 best options, we tested many more that fell short in some regard to keep them off of our list.
RAVS 48″ Foldable Fitness Rebounder: While this pick featured a sturdy base, supportive springs, and was suitable for a variety of exercises, we found the assembly to be overly involved, and the handlebars to be less supportive than we wanted.
Jumpsport 570 Pro 44″ Fitness Trampoline: Despite a super easy assembly, clear instructions, and a wonderful balance of firmness and bounciness, this pick left us desiring more from its stability. We felt it was overpriced, given this concern.
Sportplus+ Indoor Trampoline: It’s a good option for the price, but our tester had some reservations about stability. Though bouncing and landings were comfortable, parts of the trampoline were uneven.
FirstE 48″ Foldable Fitness Trampoline: The large size made our tester feel secure and comfortable to move around, but the tension was on the firmer size, so more effort was needed to reach the desired jumping height.
JumpSport 250 Fitness Trampoline: The JumpSport 350 is our top pick, but the 250 fell short in sturdiness and the size of the surface area. Our tester enjoyed the workout but found this model to be too bouncy and narrow.
Marcy Trampoline Cardio Trainer with Handle: A handle is a nice touch to add security, but our tester found this handle to be unstable and wobbly. This could be an option to consider for someone who prefers a firm bouncing surface.
Lacey Muinos is a health and fitness writer at Health who has researched and reviewed a variety of exercise products, such as antiperspirants and socks. Her preferred forms of exercise are strength training, pilates, and walking, but she can appreciate a fun workout like rebounding.
This article was updated by Jack Byram, a writer at Health who has been covering all things exercise-related since 2023. As a workout fanatic, Jack knows the value of high-quality, low-impact workouts and used to regularly use a rebounder. Anecdotally, he liked it as a means to get himself moving in the morning and even found it to provide a mild endorphin rush.
Whatever your fitness goal, seeing progress when you start working out can take time, yet when we take just a few weeks off, it can feel like starting from scratch again. This can be really frustrating, so fitness experts always say the key to seeing positive results is to enjoy the exercise you’re doing (whether that’s walking workouts, strength training, or Pilates workouts at home) and stay consistent.
Jo Clubb, a sports science consultant and founder of Global Performance Insights, says: “The body is an amazing machine. When you expose it to something new and repeat that stimulus over time, it adapts to make that task feel easier.” But she adds that “how long this takes depends on several factors, such as the type of exercise, the volume and intensity of the training, and the individual’s training history”.
Jo says people who are sedentary or physically inactive have the greatest potential to see change, and this could be as quickly as within one to two weeks. But it’s maintaining a realistic routine that can be hardest, especially if progress stagnates along the way. In a bid to boost exercise motivation to continue exercising throughout 2026, I spoke to some experts to dig a bit deeper into how our bodies change over time and other benefits we can expect.
How long does it take to get fit?
Nicole Chapman, personal trainer and founder of the Power of Mum fitness app, says most people start to feel fitter sooner than they expect. While you might not notice changes such as weight loss or muscle definition, she says that “within 2-3 weeks you might find you have a bit more energy, you are sleeping better, and you ache less”. “Everyday things like stairs or carrying bags can start to feel a little easier too,” she adds.
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“Initial improvements to exercise are largely driven by changes in the nervous system,” Jo explains. “The Central Nervous System (CNS) adapts to the new stimulus to try to move more efficiently. You probably haven’t got stronger in the first few weeks at a muscular level, and yet things feel easier.”
It might be someone else, like a friend or partner, who points out physical changes to you at first. Nicole says: “Because we see ourselves every single day, we tend to overanalyse and miss the gradual progress that is happening right in front of us.”
However, this answer varies from person to person and depends on your history of exercising. If you’ve done weight training, running, or another sport before, you’ll regain your fitness faster than those who are completely new. People who are used to weight training will have more muscle flexibility and elasticity than those who haven’t. It may also mean that recovery time is faster.
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After 3 months
Weight loss
Your clothes may fit better
More stamina
Better cardiovascular health
If you’ve been exercising consistently for three months, you’ll definitely have started to see some real changes and progress. You might have lost weight and notice that you feel more toned in your legs, arms and core, and your clothes may fit differently.
You might have more stamina when walking the dog, going up stairs may feel easier, and there might be fewer groans when you get in and out of the car or bed.
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Your exercise routine will have become a habit, and if you skip a session, you might feel stiff or sluggish. “Emotionally, people often feel steadier and clearer, simply because their body feels more supported,” says Nicole.
“After a few months, more visible and structural changes start to occur. On top of the early neurological changes, the body now adapts on a structural level, increasing in muscle size and strength,” says Jo.
Our cardiovascular fitness also continues to improve, and some people may notice improvements in their resting heart rate. “You may find you can exercise for longer or at a higher intensity, recover more quickly, and feel less breathless during everyday activities,” she says.
After six months
Improved strength, balance, and coordination
Improved core strength
Boosted long-term energy levels and mood
“By six months, there’s often a real step up in how your body feels and performs,” says Nicole. “Strength, balance and coordination are usually much more established, so movement feels more controlled and powerful, rather than like hard work.”
She adds that you might see improvements in your core strength in particular, which can mean the back feels more supported and aches are reduced. “Many people also notice they move with more ease and confidence because their body feels stable and reliable,” she adds.
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She says people often find they feel more energised and feel more positive.
The key to progress is consistency, so find an activity you like – that way you’re more likely to do it frequently.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
After 12 months
Improved strength and endurance
Quicker recovery after each workout
More confidence
A year in, your life will be looking very different. Your “strength and endurance are usually significantly higher than when you began, and recovery tends to be quicker,” says Nicole. “Your muscles, joints and connective tissues are now working together more efficiently, which gives a sense of physical resilience,” she adds.
However, one of the biggest differences after a year will be internal. “Many people feel connected to their body in a different way, with a sense of stability and confidence that comes from looking after it consistently over time,” she says. At this point, set yourself a goal, such as an organised run or a strength milestone like your first push-up or pull-up. “Having something positive to progress towards can be a great way to celebrate how far you have already come.”
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It’s also important to keep pushing yourself, if you want to continue to see results. This doesn’t always mean exercising harder, says Jo, but instead “gently progressing the type, amount, or intensity of activity to keep the body adapting”.
Tips for getting fit in 2026
1. SPORT
No, I’m not talking about taking up a new hobby. Jo uses the acronym S-P-O-R-T in her work as a sports scientist to help clients understand their body’s response to exercise.
If you’re looking to improve your fitness, it’s a good set of guidelines to refer to:
Specific (S): The body will adapt based on what it’s being asked to do whether this is functional exercise, or strength training.
Progressive Overload (PO): If you want to continue to improve then you need to graually increase the stimulus.
Reversibility (R): If you don’t use it, you lose it! While it doesn’t always need to be focused on getting fitter, you’ll always need to maintain your exercise to keep those gains.
Tedium (T): Training needs variety, otherwise people get bored and the risk of injury can increase due to overuse.
Keep your goals realistic
When you set any goal, whether it’s for fitness, your career, eating habits, social life, or something else, the key is to keep it realistic. If you’ve struggled to do 10 minutes of exercise every day in the past, don’t set yourself the goal of working out every single day.
Instead, focus on what you can do. For example, can you get outside for a 15-minute walk every day or get your 10,000 steps in at home? If you can’t get to the gym, can you do a quick kettlebell workout before you start work or have breakfast?
Small habits over time build consistency, which builds confidence in ourselves, and we’re more likely to follow through.
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Nicole agrees. “Short, manageable workouts that you repeat regularly will take you much further than pushing yourself hard and then stopping because it feels unsustainable,” she says.
Prioritise small bursts of activity
Most of us don’t have time to be in the gym for hours at a time (and we don’t need to be!). Small bursts of activity, sometimes known as exercise snacking, have been proven to be almost as effective as dedicated exercise sessions in a study in Exercise and Sports Sciences Review.
Dr Reem Hasan, NHS GP and chief medical officer at Vista Health, says: “Start with something manageable like a short walk during your lunch break, stretching before bed, or taking the stairs instead of the lift. These small bursts of activity add up and make movement part of your lifestyle rather than a short-term resolution.”
Get stronger
If you want to get fitter in 2026 but you’re not sure where to start, weight training is essential for women over 50. From the age of 35, we start to lose muscle and bone mass. With menopause, the rate increases.
Simply lifting weights at home, doing Pilates with weights, or getting in a dumbbell gym workout can improve strength, boost bone density, reduce the risk of muscle loss, and, contrary to popular belief, give your cardiovascular system a boost as well.
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Lifting weights means you can do everything you want with better control and stability outside of the gym, whether that’s navigating an uneven path on a hike this year or getting on the floor to play with your grandchildren in the future.
W&H editors’ essential recommendations
Weights
SPORTNOW
Adjustable Dumbbells Set 2kg/4kg/6kg/8kg/10kg Weights
Really, all it takes to get stronger and improve your cardiovascular fitness is a set of weights, says woman&home health channel editor and fitness instructor, Grace Walsh. Adjustable dumbbells like these mean you can use them for upper- and lower-body workouts, and take the weight up as you get stronger without having to spend more. You can do a dumbbell workout at home to start off with.
Fitness tracker
Progress will be your biggest motivator if you’re new to exercise. As good as it feels to plug in your exercise headphones and get out the door, it feels even better to know that you’re doing better than last week. One of the best fitness trackers can log your progress and offer this.
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Support
Shock Absorber
D+ Max Support Bra
When it comes to activewear, I’m a big believer in working with what you have until you need something new. A good sports bra, especially if you have a larger chest, is essential, however. My favourite is the Shock Absorber D+ Support bra.
As people return to gyms or start new fitness routines in the new year, new research suggests that even a short burst of intense exercise could play a role in protecting against cancer. Scientists report that as little as 10 minutes of hard physical activity may help slow cancer growth.
The study found that brief, vigorous exercise quickly changes the mix of molecules circulating in the bloodstream. These rapid shifts appear to suppress bowel cancer cell growth while also speeding up the repair of damaged DNA.
How Exercise Changes the Bloodstream
Researchers at Newcastle University discovered that exercise raises the levels of several small molecules in the blood. Many of these molecules are known to reduce inflammation, support healthy blood vessels, and improve metabolism.
When scientists exposed bowel cancer cells in the lab to blood containing these exercise-driven molecules, they observed widespread genetic changes. More than 1,300 genes shifted their activity, including genes involved in DNA repair, energy production, and cancer cell growth.
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Published in the International Journal of Cancer, the findings help clarify how physical activity may lower bowel cancer risk. The research shows that exercise sends molecular signals through the bloodstream that influence genes controlling tumor growth and genetic stability.
The results add to growing evidence that staying physically active is an important part of cancer prevention.
New Possibilities for Cancer Treatment
Dr. Sam Orange, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Exercise Physiology at Newcastle University and lead author of the study, said: “What’s remarkable is that exercise doesn’t just benefit healthy tissues, it sends powerful signals through the bloodstream that can directly influence thousands of genes in cancer cells.
“It’s an exciting insight because it opens the door to find ways that mimic or augment the biological effects of exercise, potentially improving cancer treatment and, crucially, patient outcomes.
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“In the future, these insights could lead to new therapies that imitate the beneficial effects of exercise on how cells repair damaged DNA and use fuel for energy.”
Slowing Cancer Growth at the Cellular Level
The research team found that exercise increased the activity of genes that support mitochondrial energy metabolism. This helps cells use oxygen more efficiently.
At the same time, genes linked to rapid cell division were turned down, which may make cancer cells less aggressive. Blood collected after exercise also boosted DNA repair, activating a key repair gene known as PNKP.
The study included 30 volunteers, both men and women between the ages of 50 and 78. All participants were overweight or obese (a risk factor of cancer) but otherwise healthy.
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Each volunteer completed a short but intense cycling test that lasted about 10 minutes. Researchers then collected blood samples and examined 249 proteins. Thirteen of those proteins increased after exercise, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), which plays a role in repairing damaged DNA.
Why Even One Workout Matters
Dr. Orange, a Clinical Exercise Physiologist at The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “These results suggest that exercise doesn’t just benefit healthy tissues, it may also create a more hostile environment for cancer cells to grow.
“Even a single workout can make a difference. One bout of exercise, lasting just 10 minutes, sends powerful signals to the body.
“It’s a reminder that every step, every session, counts when it comes to doing your best to protect your health.”
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Bowel Cancer Rates and Physical Activity
Bowel cancer is the 4th most common cancer in the UK, after breast, prostate and lung cancer.
In the UK, one person is diagnosed with bowel cancer every 12 minutes, adding up to nearly 44,000 cases each year. Someone dies from the disease every 30 minutes.
Researchers estimate that regular physical activity lowers bowel cancer risk by about 20%. Exercise does not have to mean gym workouts or sports. Walking or biking to work, along with everyday activities such as gardening or cleaning, can also contribute.
Looking ahead, the research team plans to examine whether repeated exercise sessions lead to long-lasting biological changes. They also aim to study how exercise-related effects interact with common cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
The start of a new year always brings with it lofty goals, inspiring resolutions and promises to oneself about prioritizing health and fitness. It’s overwhelming, to be quite honest, with social media feeds swarming about all the “it” gear, apparel and workout classes that promise to elevate your fitness routine.
Luckily, Women’s Health is here to help: Their annual Fitness Awards dropped earlier today, showcasing innovative at-home gear, a clever water bottle (that will truly help you drink more water), sports bras that actually stay in place and more.
Women’s Health Executive Health and Fitness Director Jacqueline Andriakos and her team spent the entire year trying out everything they could get their hands on in the fitness space. Their list of 60 winners promises to level up your routine in the new year.
See their top picks below across multiple fitness categories, starting at just $19.
Women’s Health Fitness Awards 2026 winners seen on TODAY
Choose between 2- to 20-lb. weights dependent on your fitness goals. Each dumbbell is created for a more comfortable grip, opting for a coated exterior rather than a metal one.
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Weights:2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12, 15 and 20-lb. options available | Colors:4 | Materials:Iron interior coated in a non-slip coating
Level up your at-home gym with these dumbbells that feature an easy-to-grip exterior that’s soft on the palms, helping to prevent calluses or rough skin. Not only are they great for your palms, but Andriakos calls out a feature that offers support for your wrists too.
“The real hero feature is the square heads — they prevent wobbling and rolling, which is so important for wrist protection when you’re in high plank, doing renegade rows, or doing any stability-based training,” says Andriakos.
These pants are a good cross between your favorite pair of wide leg bottoms and yoga pants.
Sizes:XS-XXL, also available in regular, short and long lengths | Colors:22 | Materials:Polyamide and elastane fabric blend
“We’re seeing a trend away from classic leggings toward slightly flowier gym-to-street pants, and these are such a comfortable, functional version of that,” says Andriakos referring to the Women’s Health pick for ‘Best Straight-Leg Bottom.’ “They hug in all the right places, come in tons of colors, and — bless them — they offer short, regular and long inseams, which I appreciate as a tall girl.”
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Courtesy Jillian Gonzales
Your workout is only as good as the shoes you’re wearing. This pair can carry you through it all, according to the brand, no matter if you’re doing a HIIT workout or going for a quick run.
Colors:2 | Sizes:5-12, including half sizes
This truly versatile shoe can be your new go-to for any activity — no matter if you’re an avid ClassPass user or prefer hot girl walks.
“They look sleek, they’re super bendy and comfortable, and they’re truly a hybrid shoe,” says Andriakos. “While you can tie them like regular sneakers, I love that they’re easy to slip on thanks to the heel loop—perfect for those moments when I’m holding my daughter and don’t have hands free to tie laces.”
Toting your gym shoes and extra clothes from home, to the office, to the gym and back home just got a lot simpler.
This “no-frills” tote bag won for ‘Best Gym Tote,’ and is washable, meaning you can rid it of any gym-related odors alongside your used workout clothes each week. “It has all the functionality and compartments you’d want whether you’re going to and from the gym or just running around town,” says Andriakos, speaking to the bags’ versatility.
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These socks are perfect for running because they never slip or move around.
Colors:3 | Sizes:4 – 13 | Material:58% polyester, 22% nylon, 16% cotton and 4% elastane | Care recommendations:Machine wash cold on gentle cycle
These were named the ‘Best Running Sock’ by the Women’s Health team, for their “lightweight and low-profile yet cushiony” fit.
“The biggest mistake I’ve made in the past with running socks is wearing ankle-cut and ending up with blisters or open wounds on the back of my ankles or heels,” says Andriakos. “The quarter rise on this pair means your ankle stays fully protected no matter your distance.”
Reach daily water intake goals with a new, colorful water bottle.
Size:27 oz. | Colors:19 | Materials:Glass covered in a silicone “sleeve”
“I really believe even the most mundane items can make daily habits — like hydration — feel more enticing,” says Andriakos, adding that the “window” on this water bottle helps give you visual cues on how much you’ve consumed.
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Plus, you can switch out the caps for either a screw-off or straw lid, depending on your preferences. And, while the brand praises the bottles’ durability, if you happen to break it within the first year of ownership, they’ll send you a replacement.
More Women’s Health Fitness Awards 2026 winners to Shop
Aptly named, this tee promises to remain lightweight and non-restrictive during any workout.
Colors:12 | Sizes:XXS-XXL | Materials:Polyester and spandex fabric blend
This super-stretchy, uber-lightweight tee was named the best for workouts, per Women’s Health. It provides a little more coverage compared to your average workout top, yet remains breathable for yoga or HIIT sessions.
With medium support, this bra promises to remain reliable during high-impact workouts.
Colors:15 | Sizes:XXS-XL
“This bra is hands-down the best high-impact sports bra I’ve ever tried,” raves Andriakos, further calling it her holy grail. “I can’t stand dealing with hardware, clasps or removable pads, and this one eliminates all of that — you just slip it on with zero fidgeting. It does have adjustable straps, though, so you still get a bit of customization in the fit. I also love the scoop neckline. It’s flattering and pretty without being too low-cut, and it gives enough coverage that I never feel like I’m spilling out the top when I’m jumping around during workouts. It has supported me through different life stages, too — my chest has changed sizes during pregnancy and postpartum, and it’s fit me perfectly through all of it.”
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Feel secure and supported in this “sleek” bra that’s long enough to act as a workout top as well.
Colors:5 | Sizes:XXS-L | Materials:Polyester and elastane fabric blend
While this bra can double as a workout tank in some ways, Women’s Health awarded it ‘Best Crop.’ It offers medium-support, that the brand says will aid you in any run, rep and even during recovery.
This versatile mat can be folded and unfolded to aid you in multiple workouts — from yoga to lunges, planks and more.
Colors:5 | Size:68” x 24” | Material:EVA, polyurethane
Bala prioritizes “comfort and convenience” in this mat, that they created to be a one-and-done solution for when you need a basic mat for floor workouts, or an assist during planks, lunges, step-ups and more.
“It is genuinely beautiful — and I know that sounds funny when talking about workout equipment, but you really do use the gear that appeals to you,” says Andriakos. “I love aesthetically pleasing equipment, and this mat has those chic curved edges and comes in that trendy foldable style.”
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Thanks to their 4-way stretch, these leggings move with you rather than restricting you throughout your workout or daily activities.
Sizes:XXS-XXL, also available in short, regular and long inseams | Colors:5 | Materials:Recycled polaymide and elastane fabric blend
Vuori is a viral brand — with searches for store locations spiking 180% over the past month alone. These leggings are designed with recycled materials, but that doesn’t mean they compromise on moisture-wicking and multi-stretch features.
“They’re incredibly comfortable (and flattering) with the perfect mid- to high-rise waist, and there are no uncomfortable elastics or drawstrings,” says Andriakos.
The brand brags about utilizing a “fast-drying” fabric to create these leggings — helping wick away sweat faster compared to other pairs.
Colors:8 | Sizes:0-20, also available in 23, 25, 28 and 31″ inseam options | Materials:Nylon and lycra elastane fabric blend
Want a versatile pair of leggings that will carry you through any and all workouts? Women’s Health recommends this now award-winning pair, for its moisture-wicking fabric, range of sizes and comfortable, high-rise fit.
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Remain cozy and comfortable with this polyester fleece jacket, that includes a high neckline for shielding cold weather.
“I get a comment every single time I wear this fleece,” says Andriakos. “I’ve washed it dozens of times now, and it still feels just as soft, even after going through the washer and the dryer. I also love the elastic at the waist because you can cinch it for a more flattering, cozy look while keeping in extra heat. It’s stylish, eye-catching and helps me feel put-together in my activewear life.”
This handheld gadget is perfect for relieving muscle pain and soreness.
Features:3 speeds to alternate between, rechargeable, comes with a travel case
Chirp is also a Shop TODAY-favorite brand (their roller was a Gift We Love in 2025!), so its safe to say we weren’t surprised to see it earn another award, this time for their miniature massage gun.
“The Chirp Mini massager blends the percussion of a massage gun with the rolling motion of a foam roller,” says Andriakos. “It provides targeted relief to sore body parts and with three adjustable speeds, it’s gentler than other techy massage tools but still allows you to get meaningful relief.”
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Say goodbye to your subscriptions and hello to at-home pilates! This kit comes with everything you need for getting the best workout from the comfort of your home.
Colors:8 | Includes:Toning ring, soft ball, loop and long bands, dumbbells, socks, weighted loop
“The Power Pilates Kit from BetterMe is a bit an investment, but it is a worthwhile one — you get so much bang for your buck!” exclaims Andriakos. “The kit includes mini loop bands in both fabric and rubber, hand weights, grip socks, a Pilates ball, a Pilates ring and a weighted power ring. Basically everything you’d need for a traditional strength-focused resistance workout or a Pilates-sculpt session. It’s all compact equipment too, so if you’re traveling or packing a few things for on-the-go workouts, this bundle is incredibly versatile, so you never need to miss a workout.”
Women’s Health Fitness Awards 2025 previously seen on TODAY
Tie back loose ends with this workout headband.
Material:Polyester | Colors/patterns:24
Does sweat drip into your eyes or your hair get disheveled while working out? The Gymwrap 2.0 Headband promises to wick away sweat as you exercise. That way, you don’t have to worry about sweat getting into your eyes or your hair falling loose. The headband also has Evapocool fabric to keep it breathable, cool and ventilating while you wear it.
Track progress by attaching your phone to this water bottle, to snap pictures or recording videos.
Colors:5 | Size:24 oz. | Materials:Stainless steel
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If you’re like us and have a growing collection of water bottles, you might want to add this Bala Bottle to your round up. Not only will it keep your drink cool, the booster ring on the cap can be used to mount your phone.
This secure running belt helps to ensure your phone, keys, wallet and more won’t fall out on long runs and walks alike.
Colors:33
Remain hands-free during your runs with the SPI Running Belt. According to the brand, it’s a favorite amongst marathoners. And unlike some running belts on the market, the belt offers ample space and no bounce as you run.
These recovery sandals are well-loved by editors on the team who are avid runners.
According to the brand, this sandal absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear. Meaning, you should experience less stress on the knees, ankles and other joints as you recover. There’s also sizing for men, too, here.
We’re not saying these are the perfect leggings, but they’re pretty close. They’re available in a wide range of sizes, colors and even inseams and have a high waisted silhouette.
Colors:7 | Sizes:XXS-XXL, also available in 25 or 28″ inseams | Materials:Nylon and spandex fabric blend
Rhone’s Revive Pocket Leggings promise movement with ease. From its stretchy fabric, anti-odor technology, supportive waistband and oh, the phone pocket (of course!), these leggings should help you move about confidently during your workouts. Choose from this bright plum color above or one of their 15 shades, including black and navy from their core line.
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Although the brand doesn’t have an option for men, they have some workout joggers available.
Meet the experts
Our team features a range of qualified experts and contributors in our broadcast segments to reveal the latest in trends, remarkable sale events and all things shopping across a variety of categories. These items were independently chosen by members of the Shop TODAY team along with Jacqueline Andriakos and the Women’s Health team.
Jacqueline Andriakos, NASM-CPT, is the Executive Health and Fitness Director at Women’s Health, certified personal trainer and former group fitness class instructor.
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How we chose
The Shop TODAY editors and writers search the internet to find the best products out there. We interview expert sources, comb through customer reviews and even use our own personal experiences to make shopping easier for our readers. For this particular article, the Women’s Health team submitted a list of their Fitness Awards winners, from which we chose products to feature on the show.
As an editorial team, we independently create content and determine coverage based on research, reporting and what we think TODAY.com readers would like to read about. The goal of our content is to provide a service and inform readers who are on the hunt for the latest products to help make their life better. Items are sold by retailer, not TODAY. Pricing and availability are accurate as of publish time. Learn more about Shop TODAY.