Run, don’t walk
Download the Runtastic GPS Pro app onto your Android or iPhone and it transforms into an expert running partner. Runtastic Pro uses GPS to map your runs, including time, distance, elevation, speed and kilojoules burned. Through Runtastic Earth View you can watch your workout in 3D, with help from the free Google Earth app. Plus, you can join a global community of runners by saving your runs on runtastic.com.
Best for: Those who love the fun of pavement pounding and also want to crunch their stats and get insider tips.
Get the kit: $7.50 from the Apple store, Google Play, Windows store and BlackBerry World.
Hit your stride
Tackle a fitness goal with the Fitbit Alta, an activity tracker that measures steps, distance, kilojoules burned and your sleep cycle. When you move, the band moves with you and then syncs automatically within range of your smartphone or computer, and you can check your activity and share stats with others on the system via the tap display.
Best for: Walkers who love having goals and a group for motivation and support, or the casual walker looking to build up to longer distances.
Track star
With more than 600 activities, the Map My Fitness app lets you track a huge range of different workouts and sports. The basic app is free, though some of the special features are behind a paywall. The GPS feature follows your routes and suggests new circuits nearby, and you can get an insight into your progress with detailed stats including pace, distance, duration, elevation and kilojoules burned.
Best for: Anyone who likes recording their progress with stats and facts. Those who like lots of variety in their workouts.
Get the kit: Free, with various special features available for a monthly subscription fee of $8.30 per month or $42 per year. Available on Android and Apple.
The great outdoors
Bushwalkers can build up a serious thirst. The CamelBak All Clear Purifier cleans dirty water from creeks or rivers in 60 seconds, so you can drink safe water when you’re on the go outdoors.
Best for: Anyone who loves exploring, but doesn’t want to get caught short without clean water. Fantastic for multisport enthusiasts and those who enjoy adventure races.
Get the kit: $199 from bivouac.co.nz and camelBak.com.
Band together
If you want to add some extra oomph to your workout, resistance bands can step up the intensity. They’re super simple to use, budget-friendly and you can get an effective workout without having to leave the house. This Nike band comes in light, medium or heavy resistances, and the handles make it a breeze to grip and manoeuvre.
Best for: Anyone who wants to focus on toning and strengthening.
Get the kit: $39.99 from rebelsport.co.nz.
In the swim
The Garmin Swim watch lets you put your head down and get lost in the deep blue without having to count laps. Plug in the length of the pool you’re swimming in and it does the rest, measuring distance, pace, stroke count, laps and kilojoules burned.
Best for: Regular swimmers sick of lap counting and anyone wanting to give their squad training a boost.
Get the kit: $220 from garmin.com/en-nz.
Yoga style
If tech gadgets aren’t your thing, channel your inner yogi with a durable mat from We’ar Yoga. Embedded with jute, the mats have a slip-free upper layer, while the underside is made from naturally sourced rubber. Not only are they a great surface to practice your poses on, they’re also non-toxic, recyclable and biodegradable.
Best for: Yoga fans of all skill levels who want practicality and eco-friendly brownie points rolled into one stylish mat.
Get the kit: $95 from we-ar.com.
