Well, as we continue down the road toward “the most wonderful time of the year” most of us are getting geared up for purchasing the gifts we know our loved ones will love. It’s only right that I give in to the festivities and give you all some ideas for the fitness fanatic on your list!
Nothings says “I love you” or “I care about you” like a gift that supports the healthy lifestyle your friend or family member is trying to keep up with. It’s so difficult (especially in the winter) to stay motivated and keep up with a great workout routine or eating plan. But, a great piece of equipment or shiny new gadget can be just the thing to spice things up and make the fitness fanatic on your list very happy.
So…here are five fabulous gifts that would make any fitness fanatic happy:
Stability Ball
One of the best pieces of fitness equipment out there! The stability ball is excellent for all fitness levels. This heavy-duty, inflatable ball can be used for a very wide range of activities including toning muscles, improving posture and increasing flexibility. Most stability balls range in price from about $10.99 – $25.99 depending on the brand and size. Click here to check out this Reebok ball sold in Target stores!
GPS Running Watch
(You know I had to include something for the runners!) Nothing keeps a runner focused and pushing ahead like a nice watch that tells their distance, time, calories, heart rate, pace and even elevation. For the experienced runner (and even for beginners) knowing your time and distance is key to training for a running event or trying to get your personal best with a certain goal in mind. Garmin has a great line of watches that meet any sporting need and some models even include heart-rate monitors. You can check out all of the Garmin watches here.
Resistance Bands
Easy to carry, lightweight and full of great ways to get those muscles toned and strong, resistance bands are a great gift! Beginners, intermediate, advanced…no matter what level you’re at, anyone can use these in place of weights or trying to get to the gym. Any exercise that’s done with free weights can be done with resistance bands. I found a great set with every “weight” distinction on Amazon. Check them out here.
Workout Clothes
Any good workout involves sweat…and A LOT of it. Because we sweat so much, our clothes can get worn out pretty quickly due to the salt from the sweat. So it’s important to invest in solid, moisture-wicking and even stylish clothes to stay dry and comfortable. Having tried out just about every style and brand of athletic gear, I could go on and on about what should be apart of every fitness fanatic’s workout wardrobe. But I’ll stick to what’s good in the winter. Think about clothes that are warm, but not too bulky or loose, that wick moisture away and keep you focused on the task ahead. UnderArmour has always had a great line of clothes for the athlete and the investment is so worth it. But I’ve also found Target to have some fairly priced athletic gear that won’t put a dent in your wallet.
Fitness Games (for Wii or X-Box)/DVDs
If you haven’t been keeping up with the latest technology regarding fitness and workout at home, well…you should be! The X-Box now has a very cool motion sensor you can purchase that doesn’t require you to have a controller called the “Kinect”. A friend of mine bought it from Walmart recently and we had a BLAST playing it! For the “Kinect”, there are special games that go with it and one of them is the “Biggest Loser Challenge” that have Bob and Jillian (the Biggest Loser trainers) look-alikes leading workouts and making you sweat. You don’t need a controller at all, just stand in front of the television and get moving! Also for the Kinect is the new “Zumba Fitness” game for those who love Zumba! Now, you can Zumba at home, right in your living room.
The Wii also has some awesome games that partner with the Wii Fit. The new “Zumba Fitness” game also comes with the Wii. As well as a whole slew of games that will help you get and stay in shape at home. Check out some of the really great games here.
Now, if your fitness fanatic doesn’t have a game system like an X-Box or a Wii…no worries! There are plenty of awesome DVDs that will make great gifts and offer an option when it’s just too cold to go out or try to get to the gym. Some of my favorites are:
Jillian Michaels: 30 Day Shred
Leslie Sansone: Walk Away the Pounds
Biggest Loser: The Workout: Power Sculpt
Bob The Trainer: Inside-Out Method, Yoga for the Warrior
Jeanette Jenkins: Bikini Bootcamp
So now, you have some great ideas for the fitness fanatic on your list. Show your friend/family member you care about their effort to be healthy and active!
Be Renewed
Very informative and interesting to read. Thanks!