We’re back with more as testers couldn’t rest with only one collection of favorite, performance-elevating products. For those who don’t take life lying down, Active Junky’s got gift ideas worth a standing ovation. And with benefits that mean longer powder days, cross-country MTB rides and coastal SUP paddles. Along with fewer injuries and faster recovery times.
Active Junky couldn’t belief this three-speed rechargeable fitness roller’s ability to shake things up. While we’re long-term users of rollers, this system deserves the Olympic plaudits received from Rio competitors (and medalists) in team and individual events. While the settings give a full range of frequencies, the 16.8v Lithium-ion battery is unstoppable with long cycle times between plugging in. A one-year warranty adds to the confidence that sends quads into relaxed extension, calves into post-peddling bliss and IT bands to a place not possible with manual roller systems. Getting serious about winter? Bring the vibes now.
Best For: Serious rolling for rigorous workouts, competitive training and injury recovery
prAna Yoga Wonderblock Starting at: $20.86
Whether getting back into yoga after an extended hiatus or working with physical restrictions, the Wonderblock makes more positions possible. And compensates for injury and arthritis to keep practitioners moving through the entire class. EVA foam grips the floor well on extended, off-mat positions for confidence-building security. Active Junky first tried this yoga block on a retreat in the mountains of Utah. As an easy-washing option to other products, Wonderblock’s smooth domed top and utility in every configuration make it a winner. Even if the goal is harmony, not competition.
Best for: All yoga practitioners from beginners to instructors
We’re not going to mince words here – or take the pressure off this new company to deliver the goods. Rolflex is strange and only gets more so when used. But after about 20 minutes of experimenting, the “clamp and roll” concept behind the foam roller becomes more worthwhile. Of particular note is the relief delivered to calves and forearms with the two-roller technology. While the black roller stabilizes Rolflex, the spring-green therapy roller puts foam-based pressure where needed. Not ideal for neck, back and shoulder use (where clamping isn’t possible), here’s a $60 extremity specialist tailored to cyclists, climbers and paddlers (in our estimation).
Best For: Warm-up and relief at home and on the road
Coromega Be Bright Superfood Oil Blend
This tasty, life-boosting superfood blend has got it all going on with five oils. While our tester’s initial trial of 30 days was only beginning to evidence the benefits, longer-term daily servings of 2 teaspoons means Omega-3, 6 and 9, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals and other components power into your body. Rich, creamy and a joy to slurp, chia, coconut, avocado, hemp and black cumin flow into your nutrition program effortlessly. While this intelligent move comes at a cost, Active Junky’s convinced the investment is solid. In a liquid sense, that is.
Best For: Training, recovery from injury and as a step toward upgrading personal nutrition