It’s funny to look back at the fitness topics we were covering around a year ago: stuff like the best stay-at-home workouts, a face mask designed for running and the question of whether your activity tracker can detect COVID-19. My how times have changed. Yes, the pandemic continues to make its presence felt — we’re going to have an Olympics with no spectators, after all — but in the U.S. things generally seem to be returning to some semblance of normal.
Case in point: gyms. All but abandoned a year ago, they are bouncing back in a big way. According to a report by the financial services company Jefferies, May traffic at fitness centers hit 83 percent of January 2020 levels, and it’s down just 6 percent from May 2019. Quite a flex.
Thinking of returning to the gym yourself? Here’s everything you need to gear up for some epic workouts, from shorts, shirts, shoes and masks to recovery goods, yoga mats, protein powders and even the best bags with which to tote it all.
Editor’s note: For everyone’s safety, follow CDC guidelines and state and local laws with regard to wearing masks in gym settings. They can be tricky and often vary depending on whether you are vaccinated. Thankfully, the International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) has been tracking mask requirements by state, and here’s a chart with the organization’s most recent findings.
The 15 Best Gym Shorts of 2021
Ten Thousand
All of the best training and recreation options, none of the jorts.
The Best Gym Shoes for Every Type of Workout
Henry Phillips
Whether you crave CrossFit, hoist heavy weights or bounce around, there’s a sneaker here for you.
The 10 Best Shirts for Your Workout
Rhone
What you wear for a workout shouldn’t be an afterthought.
The Best CrossFit Shoes of 2021
NoBull
No matter your budget or favorite type of WOD, we’ve got a winner for you.
The 10 Best Gym Bags of 2021
Gear Patrol
Not all gym bags are created equal. Here are our favorites for all kinds of people and uses.
The Best Shorts and Liners for Yoga
Rhone
It’s not a stretch to say it: shorts are the most important article of clothing for your practice.
The Best Face Masks of 2021
Courtesy
Including our top tested picks for working out, running errands, braving winter and so much more.
The 10 Best Yoga Mats for 2021
Courtesy
Whether you’re a newbie or an expert, these superlative mats will support you through any practice.
10 Recovery Products That Feel Damn Good
Courtesy
These body-friendly items are worth stocking in your home, gym bag and travel kit.
5 Protein Powders Fitness Pros Swear By
Courtesy
Protein powder is crucial for recovery — take a hint from these experts.
5 Vegan Protein Powders Trainers Love
ArtistGNDphotographyGetty Images
Thinking of going vegan with your protein powder? Here are the surprising advantages, plus five great options to try.
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