The holidays have passed, and 2026 is... you know, whatever 2026 is. But that doesn't mean we've moved past every last vestige of Christmas. In fact, Scary Mommy editors are still yapping about the stuff we got in December that has enhanced our lives in some way. This roundup is devoted to them: our favorite Christmas gifts. These are things Scary Mommy editors actually received, and would 100% re-buy for ourselves.
Work more muscles in less time. Hydrow's Origin rowing machine builds strength with low-impact workouts. Just one 20-minute workout on this at-home row machine will engage more than 86% of your muscles. The Origin's patented electromagnetic drag technology is designed to mimic the feeling of rowing on water. On-screen rowing metrics during workouts and "Hydrow 101" videos help get you started. Padded seat, adjustable foot straps, and a low-stress grip handle. Free shipping!
Bala Bangles Wrist & Ankle Weights Fit in a workout whenever you have time. Keep Bala Bangles in your bag so they're easy to grab. Wear them on your wrists or ankles to add comfortable resistance to yoga, walking, or any home workout. Gymreapers Barbell Squat Pad This squat pad helps prevent sore shoulders during back squats or after leg day. It spreads out the bar's weight so you can focus on your lift.
I'd argue our collective relationship to at-home fitness is less frenetic, and certainly less desperate. It's now an option. Something you can turn to when you're short on time, when you need something quick and reliable. (In a recent appearance on 60 Minutes, longevity expert Peter Attia emphasized the importance of even finding 15 minutes, a few times a week, to pencil in a bit of strength training.) You don't need much to that end, but you need something.
Nota bene: All products in this article are independently selected and vetted by InsideHook editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission. The holiday season is nearly upon us, and with that, sales. And while Black Friday sales are some of the most thrilling of the year, perhaps even more thrilling is when those sales come early.
Home fitness equipment typically falls into two categories: expensive machines that dominate entire rooms, or cheap gadgets that get shoved into closets after a few weeks of use. Neither option works well for people who want to stay fit without sacrificing their carefully curated living spaces. The challenge becomes even more complex when you factor in busy schedules that make gym visits feel impossible.
