Health Update: Why 2026 is the year to splurge on wellness: Our top picks – What Experts Say

With 2026 now in full gear, the fitness industry is experiencing what I’m dubbing as the Aladdin Effect.

Much like the Disney prince, we’re desiring magic wishes from a genie when it comes to our wellness products: If I could, I’d buy the Oura Ring. I dream for the at-home Pilates reformer that’ll have me skipping the studio. If only I can have a more modern treadmill.

We all want the magic carpet ride (or, ahem, should I say Peloton bike ride) on the equipment and accessories that have all the bells, whistles and do all the health tracking for us — and it’s looking like this is the year for it to be more of a “whole new world” for us to explore.

According to the Health & Fitness Organization (HFA), Americans plan to invest a whopping $60 billion in health and fitness in 2026. In an economy that’s overworked with adjectives like “inflated” and “tariffed,” the $1,700 exercise bike and $500 LED face mask are surprisingly not pushed to the wayside like your ratty gym bag may have been.

But why?

David Hamlette, wellness analyst at Mintel market research company told Glossy that the U.S. luxury wellness market is “anchored by affluent, tech-savvy consumers, especially millennials and Gen Z, with younger consumers shifting their budgets away from beauty purchases to make room for wellness shopping.”

While finding affordable fitness finds on Amazon is all well and good, the retailer has a penchant for listing some of the most respected, world-class health and wellness finds in its catalog, too. That’s right — the at-home rowing machine isn’t just a relic of pandemic at-home gym times.

Bonus points: some may be FSA- and HSA-eligible.

Ahead, I pulled together some of the hottest wellness finds worth splurging on, and they’re more than plain ol’ trends. Perhaps you’re a statistic: one of the individuals who’s biting into a piece of the projected $60 million pie. Maybe you’re a fitness newbie. Wherever you stand (or however you spend), this guide is here to ensure your New Year’s resolutions are ramped up and ready to go.

If you frequently stretch and exercise, the Theragun Mini (3rd Generation) is a trusty fitness device to help alleviate any stress. It’s the definition of “small but mighty,” and connects with your smartphone for personalization that you’ll appreciate. For a quality massage gun, look no further.

Not a morning person? Wake up gradually with the Hatch Restore 3 Sunrise Alarm Clock that not only looks aesthetically pleasing on your nightstand but also connects to your smartphone and won’t have you dreading your early a.m. wakeup.

After reviewing the Hydrow Wave Rowing Machine, I can attest that it’s a *beast* for your small apartment or expansive basement alike. With personalized programs, it’s an immersive experience that’ll create one of the best full-body workouts you’ll enjoy.

For homemade juices, smoothies and whole food-purees, the Vitamix 5200 Blender is a top-of-the-line pick that has truly completed my kitchen. After reviewing a bunch of Vitamix blenders, specifically, this model came out on top for its impressive aircraft-crafted blades and self-cleaning function.

Up the ante on your current running shoes with the Brooks Women’s Ghost Trail Running Shoes. They’re chic, perfect for rugged terrain and one of the best podiatrist-approved styles for support.

If you don’t feel like dropping some precious coin on a sauna experience, the HigherDOSE Infrared Sauna Blanket may be your new BFF. Namely, it boasts far infrared heat (FIR) that mimics the “rejuvenating power of the sun.” Trust us, your family will want to steal it.

Ah, the acclaimed Peloton Exercise Bike. Skip the in-studio sweat sesh and have your very own bike. Bonus points: pick up the brand’s matching spin shoes for an optimal experience.

The Oura Ring 4 Smart Ring has been picking up steam everywhere, and for a good reason — it’s the smart way to track your heart rate, stress levels and other health metrics without having a flashy arm band on you.

As the best LED face mask the Post Wanted team reviewed, the Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare DRx SpectraLite FaceWare Pro deserves a round of applause for its dual red and blue light therapy that’s equally as beneficial on sensitive skin types. Oh, yes.

For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.