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If you’re someone who isn’t necessarily up and at the gym at 5 a.m., don’t worry. That’s not everyone’s cup of tea (though if it is, more power to you!). Some people may only have a select amount of time to get some healthy movement in before getting the kids up for school, making breakfast, or heading to work. And if you have trouble not hitting the snooze button during that time that you might sneak in a workout, we get it.
TikTokers have a solution to those early morning (or late evening) workouts that they’re calling “cozy cardio.” First originated by TikTok creator Hope Zuckerbrow (@hope_zuckerbrow), the trend involves treating your cardio workout like a sanctuary: making sure you’re well-hydrated and have your morning coffee, smoothie, or supplements in tow, you’re wearing your softest leggings or joggers, and have soft mood lighting, lit candles, and your favorite Netflix show on in the background before you hop on the treadmill. Zuckerbrow’s workouts mainly feature a treadmill, but theoretically the “cozy cardio” concept could be applied to any type of workout, from Pilates to a dance cardio or bodyweight workout. It’s mainly about infusing the element of self-care into your workout, making it pleasurable rather than punishing.
When you’re working out, it may benefit you to switch it up and get a bit more intense with your workouts (longer runs, heavier lifts in the gym, and HIIT sessions are a welcome challenge), Matthew C. Harling, CPT, CSC, a Master Trainer at Crunch Fitness tells SheKnows. But it’s also totally acceptable — and in fact, a good idea — to have a light, more comfy fitness day every once in a while to give your body a break while still getting in some movement. Want to embrace the cozy cardio mentality for a couple days out of your week? Keep on scrolling for some cozy cardio workout essentials you’ll need.
A version of this article was originally published in 2023.
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GYMAX Under Desk Treadmill
Image Credit: GYMAX Whether you’re a multi-tasking mom or just trying to sneak in a cozy (or not so cozy) cardio workout before breakfast or on a lunch break, you’ll need a treadmill that multi-tasks right along with you. This one has handrails that rotate in case you want to keep them up and track your mileage and other stats, or folds down to be a walking pad or slide under a desk. It’s a win-win!
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New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V4 Running Shoe
Image Credit: New Balance For the best cozy treadmill or dance cardio workout, you need an equally comfy sneaker. The New Balance Fresh Foam Arishi V4 is a solid, cushy, reasonably priced pick for a low-impact workout sneaker. “The New Balance Fresh Foam Series has a ‘plush responsive feel,’ great for your low-impact activities,” Harling says.
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Beyond Yoga Tranquility Pullover
Image Credit: Beyond Yoga Nothing says cozy morning workout like starting out with a comfy hoodie like the Tranquility Pullover from Beyond Yoga. If you really want to work up a sweat while doing a lower-impact cardio workout, you can go with a heavy hoodie, Harling says. You’ll probably want to wear this relaxed-fit, snuggly fleece fabric all the time (just remember to toss in the wash after a sweaty workout!).
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Bombas Cozy Ankle Socks
Image Credit: Bombas One of the cozy cardio trademarks is comfy, fuzzy socks. However, Harling says, fuzzy socks don’t have enough support, stability, or shock absorption for your feet while you work out. “Fuzzy socks can compromise the stability that proper-fitting workout sneakers provide,” he explains. “A snug fit is vital for maintaining stability and proper foot placement, and they also lack traction, which prevents us from slipping and sliding on the gym floors or a mat.”
Plus, the bulkiness of thicker, fuzzier socks can change the fit of your sneakers, Harling points out, and may give you blisters on your feet or just generally make your feet sweat more. If you still want that cozy sock feel, try super soft Bombas ankle socks. They hug your feet, especially your arches, so you get the comfiness of a warmer sock without the bulkiness.
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Lululemon Energy Ribbed Longline Bra Medium Support, B-D Cups
Image Credit: Lululemon When it comes to cozy cardio, you need a sports bra that’s both super-supportive to minimize bouncing when the workout gets intense and extra comfortable to match your self-care vibe. This Lululemon longline medium-support bra fits the bill, made of the brand’s soft, stretchy, ribbed Luxtreme fabric and designed with support and versatility in mind. A couple notes: shoppers recommend sizing up with this style, and this bra is designed for B-D cups. Check out Lululemon’s options for B-G cups if that’s where you fall.
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FACESOFT Sweat Towel
Image Credit: FACESOFT Here’s your alternative if you prefer to stay cool rather than working out in a heavier hoodie. “Invest in a comfortable and soft workout towel,” Harling suggests. It’ll keep the cozy vibe of the workout and help you stay comfortable and dry. This one from FACESOFT is made from a cloud-like 100 percent cotton fabric.
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Stanley 40-Ounce Tumbler
Image Credit: Stanley Pair your trendy cardio workout with the water bottle of the moment, the super-insulated Stanley tumbler. Made of durable, double-walled stainless steel, it’ll keep your water nice and cool when the cozy cardio starts turning into a true sweat swesh. (And if you can’t get enough Stanley, make sure to grab some handy accessories for your tumbler too.)
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Athleta Rainier Tight
Image Credit: Athleta While pajama bottoms are a valid option for cozy cardio in the morning, you can always start (and continue) your day in a really soft legging too. Yes, they’re a bit of a splurge, but once you feel the plush interior of these Athleta Rainier Tights, it’s totally worth it. They’re made from sustainable recycled nylon and will keep you just a little bit warmer on a rainy or chilly day.
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Sunny Health & Fitness Total Body Smart 2-in-1 Stepper
Image Credit: Sunny Health & Fitness TikTok loves this tiny stair stepper for convenient cozy cardio. It’s equipped with resistance bands so you can easily make your cardio routine into a full-body workout, getting your steps in while you work your upper body. The best part: it’s small enough to slide under your couch when you’re done for the day.
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Skechers Women’s Go Walk 6-Magic Melody Sneaker
Image Credit: Skechers Another perfect sneaker option for cozy cardio is the Skechers Go Walk. They’re created and designed for walking, Harling notes. The mesh fabric is nice and breathable so it doesn’t contribute to sweaty feet, and the cushioned insole is nice and comfy and supportive while you walk on the treadmill. Depending on your size and style of choice, you can grab a pair for under $50!
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Emotional Support Water Bottle
Image Credit: Gulex Cozy cardio isn’t complete without your 64-ounce motivational water bottle. This colorful one is just $16 and gives you encouraging messages at each checkpoint. If you’re someone who needs a little bit of a nudge to get up and work out and stay hydrated, this can only help.
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