Let’s face it, shopping for a baby gift can feel like going through a leg-day: unnerving, rewarding, and occasionally painful. Especially when you’re buying for a gym-obsessed parent who’d rather be deadlifting than doing nappy changes.
But here’s the good news: baby gifts don’t have to be boring. In fact, they can be thoughtful, funny, and IG worthy... if you know where to look.
Whether your mate just became a dad and refuses to give arm day, or your sister is somehow squeezing in CrossFit between feeds, here are 5 baby toys that are perfect for fitness-loving parents in the UK.
1. Tummy Time Baby Gym Mat (from John Lewis)
Best for: Core work before crawling
A plush mat with arches, textures, and hanging toys — designed to keep baby engaged while developing strength and coordination. AKA baby’s first home gym.
2. Hazza Toyz Plush Dumbbells
Best for: Baby’s first bicep curls
You’ve seen real dumbbells. Now picture them soft, cuddly, and made for tiny hands.
These UK-designed plush dumbbells are safe from day one, with a gentle sensory rattle inside and embroidered weight markings for full gym-core cuteness. Ideal for photo ops, keepsakes, and gifting moments that parents will love.
3. Hazza Toyz Plush Kettlebells
Best for: Going for the baby gains
These plush kettlebells (paired with our dumbbells) are bundled together to deliver one serious set of baby gains — perfect for gym-loving parents.
With a sensory rattle included and baby-safe design that’s easy to grip, your little one can “bicep curl” their way through milestones, tummy time, and the cutest photos on your camera roll.
4. Sensory Wrist & Ankle Rattles
Best for: Mini muscle activation
These clever little wraps attach to baby’s wrists and ankles and gently rattle with every kick or arm wiggle — making them a perfect pick for active babies (and active parents).
They’re soft, safe from birth, and turn every wriggle into a mini milestone. Gym-loving parents will love the subtle nod to movement and development — it’s basically baby’s version of a fitness tracker (but fluffier).
Bonus: they come from a lovely UK-based brand, so they’re a feel-good gift to support small biz too.
5. Matchstick Monkey Ludo Lion Teether
Best for: Teething legends in the making
Stylish, practical, and shaped for tiny hands, this lion teether from Matchstick Monkey is a great gift for fitness-loving parents. Not a gym-themed toy exactly, but skint a little and that's a teething trap-bar if I've ever seen one!
The textured design soothes gums while doubling as a fun sensory toy, and the easy-grip handles make it ideal for those first “hold and chew” reps.
6. Skip Hop Bandana Buddies Activity Toy – Fox
Best for: On-the-go sensory play (and cuteness overload)
Okay, so maybe not technically a gym toy (we are a rare breed), but this plush fox is a total win for baby development. With crinkles, rattles, textures, and a teether all in one, it’s basically a sensory circuit disguised as a cuddly friend.
Clip it to a pram, changing bag, or car seat... it’s ideal for busy parents juggling workouts and nappy changes. Bonus points for being completely adorable.
7. “Milk. Nap. Lift. Repeat.” Baby Bodysuit
Best for: Cheeky baby gifts, matching gym fits, and making your newborn the star of the weight room.
This bestselling baby grow says it all, so what a toy to end on! Made from soft cotton with a cheeky nod to the gym grind, it’s one of the most wearable gifts you can give. Not just another toy, it’s a practical, hilarious outfit they’ll actually use.
Perfect for new dads, fit mums, or anyone you’ve ever spotted doing squats with a baby carrier on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best baby gifts for gym-loving parents?
Great baby gifts for gym parents blend fun, function, and a fitness twist. Think plush dumbbells, kettlebell rattles, baby gym mats, and cheeky bodysuits that play on the gym lifestyle — all while being safe and suitable for newborns.
Can newborns use sensory toys?
Yes — many sensory toys like ankle rattles, plush dumbbells, and teething toys are designed to be safe from birth. Always check the product label, but gentle textures, rattles, and graspable shapes are ideal for early sensory development.
Are fitness-themed baby toys actually useful?
Absolutely! Toys like plush dumbbells or wrist rattles may look like novelty gifts, but they support grip strength, motor skill development, and sensory awareness — all crucial in a baby’s first year.
Is it okay to buy funny baby gifts?
100%. Gifts that make parents laugh are often the most memorable. As long as they’re safe and practical (like soft toys or baby grows), a cheeky gift can be the highlight of the baby shower.
Where can I buy these gym baby toys in the UK?
You can find Hazza Toyz’s plush gym toys and clothing here, alongside other great UK-based options like sensory rattles and teethers from John Lewis and Priya & Peanut.
