11 Feel-Good Fitness Accessories That Keep Me Smiling Through My Workouts

Think beautiful fitness equipment doesn't exist? Think again. The latest accessory ($105) from Bala is legitimately attractive. I have my eye on the 25-pound pink beam, but if you opt for the 15-pound version, you get to pick from a variety of specialty colors including silver and sage. It's easier and more comfortable to use than a typical barbell, and it's such a trendy piece, I wouldn't even bother putting it away after every use. Just leave it out and call it art.

HOKA Kawana shoes ($160) aren't just aesthetically pleasing; they also pack a major punch athletically. While designed to be run-first shoes, (which is the number-one quality I look for in workout shoes), their versatility is one of their biggest strengths. Perfect for a HIIT class, a strength training session, or even just a walk around the block, these shoes will have you smiling for miles due to their signature cushion and premium comfort. You don't even need to be working out to enjoy how stylish they are. I'll be taking these shoes from road to workout and back again by styling them with everything from training tights to jeans.

If you have long hair like me, chances are, you tie it up before a workout, so you might as well make a style statement while you do it. These playful scrunchies ($12) add a pop of color to all of my workout looks, getting the job done efficiently and fashionably. I'll even wear one around my wrist if I want to feel extra put-together.

Form meets function in this sporty yet polished zip-up ($118). It's the kind of piece I'm excited to put on during my commute to the gym and won't want to take off after my warmup. For starters, it looks more impressive than the college hoodies I normally throw on over my workout clothes, and in the performance department, it truly delivers. It was designed for movement and features a slim overall fit, a fitted hood, and a stretchy, woven fabric that provides mobility and comfort. I can even see myself wearing it on a run.

A quality exercise mat is hard to come by. I like mine to be thick and durable, with the right soft-to-firm ratio. This one ($100) is all of the above and more. It'll even make your kickbacks, pushups, and Russian twists easier on your knees, wrist, and tailbone. And with 10 different colors to choose from, you're bound to find one that fits your vibe.

Trust me, warm, cozy gloves during a cold winter run will make you happy. I've run far too many times without proper hand protection in freezing temperatures, and it was painful. These guys ($42) are a lifesaver and literally have you covered through it all — wind, snow, rain, you name it. Made for runners, they have grippy silicone palms, reflective details, and tech-friendly fingers, so you can change songs midmile.

Although wearing a cap ($18) during a workout looks effortless and cool, it goes beyond aesthetics. When I'm outside, a cap does wonders for protecting my face and eyes from the sun. The "Time to Fly" messaging on this one, aka HOKA's brand motto, is especially empowering.

You may not be smiling while using these bad boys, but you will be grinning ear to ear afterwards. Resistance bands ($10) are notorious for taking your workout to the next level. I love throwing them on for basic exercises like squats or glute bridges and challenging myself in a whole new way. The burn is real, but so is the reward. And the fact that these two are cotton-candy colored is even better.

The great thing about gliders ($14) is that you can take them anywhere. Need to kick your workout up a notch sans weights while you're traveling? Try gliding mountain climbers or gliding plank pikes in your hotel room. They'll get you good in the moment, but your core will thank you later. It's their versatility and effectiveness that keeps me coming back for more.

I love increasing the intensity of my workouts by adding ankle weights ($23) into the mix. They automatically make any exercise a little more spicy, but once it's all said and done, you'll feel oh-so good. This particular pair is three pounds, which may not sound like a lot, but you'll feel the resistance with every step. If you're bored with your current routine, they're a surefire way to keep things interesting.

There's no way around it: jumping rope is hard. But it's also a killer total-body workout that's both cardio and strength heavy. Make the most out of your next jump rope circuit with this smart speed rope ($40) that will actually make jumping rope fun — at least more fun than it normally is. I love it because the handles have magnetic sensors that count your jumps, and it's fully adjustable to fit almost any height (even 5'2" shorties like me!). But the best part is when you connect your rope to the SmartRope app. There, you can monitor your own workouts and even compete with friends.