sweat it

by Sarah Eddy

Modernized fitness gear to enhance your workout routine

Summer is the perfect time of year to improve your fitness, and modern technology continues to make the prospect easier and more enjoyable. To take your workout plans to the next level, here’s some classic exercise and fitness gear that’s been upgraded and modernized.

 

Aftershoks Trekz Air

Pump-up music might be just what you need to finish that last mile, but headphones can put you at risk of missing car horns, bike bells, and other warning noises. The Trekz Air headphones leave the ears completely open to ambient sounds, delivering music through bone conduction in the cheeks. Weighing only 1.06 ounces, their wraparound design helps ensure these headphones remain securely in place even during intense workouts.
$150, REI, rei.com

 

Igloo Ringleader Hard Top Backpack Cooler

Backpacks don’t get much cooler than this. Leave your bulky, hard plastic box at home—the Igloo Ringleader Hard Top Backpack Cooler makes it easy to keep water, energy drinks, and snacks ice-cold during your next day hike. The top compartment is crush-proof, while bungee straps, mesh side pockets, and a front zippered pocket provide extra storage.
$45, Dick’s Sporting Goods, dickssportinggoods.com

 

LifeStraw Play Water Filter Bottle

Hauling along enough drinking water for a several-day backpacking trip can be exhausting. From purification tablets to pump filters to ultraviolet light purifiers, there are myriad techniques for cleaning water on the go. This lightweight bottle requires no batteries or pumping—simply fill it up at any tap, river, or stream. Its two-stage filter exceeds US EPA drinking water standards for bacteria and parasites. Leakproof and hardy, it can also provide peace of mind—and improved taste—when you fill up at a less-than-pristine public water fountain.
$40, REI, rei.com

 

GoFit Body Composition Scale

A traditional scale can only tell you so much, and if you’re serious about reshaping your body, it might be time for an upgrade. On top of measuring weight, the GoFit Body Composition Scale calculates body fat, muscle mass, water percentage, and bone mass. Happy sculpting!
$40, Dick’s Sporting Goods, dickssportinggoods.com

 

iReliev OTC TENS Muscle Stimulator

Don’t let sore muscles get you down. If muscle rollers aren’t doing enough for you, it might be time to up the ante. The good news is that the road to recovery can have a fast lane. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) therapy sends low-voltage electrical currents through the skin, stimulating the nerves and interfering with normal pain perception. The discreet, portable design of the iReliev OTC TENS Muscle Stimulator is perfect for use on knees, shoulders, arms, and calves.
$50, Dick’s Sporting Goods, dickssportinggoods.com