THE GIFT THAT GETS YOU MOVING: HOW SPORTS GIFTS ARE THE KEY TO UNLOCKING FITNESS POTENTIAL IN 2026
Published: 03/12/2025
We’ve all got a friend who swears they’ll finally get serious about their training, or the cousin who’s “definitely” getting back into football this year. Maybe it’s your sibling who promises every January they’ll start hitting the gym… only to forget by February. This Christmas, be the one who helps them actually take that first step.
Sports gifts like running trainers, boxing gloves, or football boots are not only thoughtful presents but powerful motivators that can kickstart a new sport or hobby in 2026.
And the data backs it up. Our survey shows 78% of Brits say they’d use a sports or fitness gift regularly, and 43% say that gift could be the spark that turns intention into action. So, when you’re shopping this Christmas, think beyond wrapping paper; you might just be gifting someone the start of their next big thing.
THE POWER OF SPORTS GIFTS AS COMMITMENT CUES
When you give someone sports gear for Christmas, you’re doing more than just giving them a present. Your gift says “you’ve got this”, offering them the opportunity to step outside their comfort zone.
Almost half of the people (43%) we spoke to said a sports gift would be the thing that finally gets them to try a new sport. That’s not just about kit – that’s about confidence. This commitment cue has a physiological effect, and it's why so many people feel that receiving fitness gear is the nudge they need to get started.
Explaining this effect in action, Psychologist and Author, Eloise Skinner, explains:
“When we perceive others to be holding us to a certain commitment, it can make us more likely to perform the behaviour, strengthening our motivation to continue or complete a given task.
“Receiving a gift can be a reminder of the impact of our outward commitment or dedication - once we've stated our goals out loud, they can start to feel more real, and when we tell other people about them, it can cause us to feel a physical connection or sense of commitment. This is especially the case if we're gifted with an item that reflects a goal or commitment we have, since it's a reminder that other people expect us to be upholding our stated intentions.”
In other words, sometimes that pair of football boots or new dumbbells is more than a present; it’s proof that someone else sees your potential. And for one in ten (11%) Brits, it’s the reason they even get started in the first place.
THE 2026 MINDSET: A YEAR OF MOVEMENT AND NEW STARTS
If 2025 was about finding our feet again, 2026 is the year to move. Our research reveals that many Brits are already thinking about 2026 as the year to start something new.
Here’s a quick look at the fitness mindset for next year - and it’s looking seriously active:
- Around one in three (32%) people are already very active and plan to keep it up next year.
- Another one in three (31%) are active and ready to try something new in 2026.
- And over one in five (21%) might not be very active right now, but they’re planning to kickstart a new routine in the new year.
In summary, over four in five Brits see 2026 as a year of movement, whether that’s keeping the momentum going or starting fresh. The motivation is definitely there, too. More than half (52%) of respondents say they’re planning to take up a brand-new fitness or sport-related activity next year - proof that people are ready to get moving and take on new challenges.
And this is where the right gift can make all the difference. Nearly one in three (32%) say a sports-related gift would inspire them to try something new, while another one in three (31%) say it would help them get back into a routine they’ve let slip. That’s almost two-thirds (63%) of people who see a sports gift as the sign to take action, whether that’s starting something new or reigniting an old habit.
“THE MOTIVATION IS DEFINITELY THERE, TOO. MORE THAN HALF (52%) OF RESPONDENTS SAY THEY’RE PLANNING TO TAKE UP A BRAND-NEW FITNESS OR SPORT-RELATED ACTIVITY NEXT YEAR”
THE MOST POPULAR FITNESS GIFTS FOR 2025
Whether you’re buying for a family member, friend, or even considering what to put on your own wishlist, the right gift could help someone take that first step into a new sport or fitness hobby.
We asked Brits which sports and fitness gifts they’d like the most this Christmas - here’s a look at the most wished-for gifts for 2025:
- Running Trainers. Perfect for pavement pounders or track starters.
- Running clothes and accessories. Whether it’s moisture-wicking fabrics for a sweat-free run or reflective gear for those early morning or evening jogs.
- Smartwatch. The perfect all-in-one device for fitness, goals and daily life.
- Gym Shoes. A must-have for anyone looking to get serious about their workouts.
- Weights or Dumbbells. Perfect for home workouts or those looking to build strength.
- Yoga Mat. A great gift for someone looking to try yoga, Pilates, or at-home stretching.
- Resistance Bands. Compact and versatile, great for toning and strength training at home.
- Exercise Bike or Treadmill. Cardio at home, no excuses.
- Foam Roller or Massage Gun. Essential for recovery after a workout, helping prevent injuries and sore muscles.
- Gym Bag. To carry everything you need from A to B.
These aren’t just gifts that’ll get used - they’re the ones that’ll get people moving.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore Sport’s Direct’s Christmas Gift Guides.
Give the Gift of Getting Started This Christmas
This Christmas, don’t just give any gift; give the gift of getting started. Whether it’s a new pair of running trainers, a fitness tracker, or a set of boxing gloves, these gifts can help someone take that first step. You might just be wrapping up someone’s next big win. Learn more about Sports Direct's ‘Just Getting Started’ campaign here.
