We are all aware that Americans are becoming more sedentary. There are so many reasons to sit – work, TV, computer, games, car rides – and few motivators to move. I do not happen to be a fitness fanatic, but I have had a history of high cholesterol, and keeping my weight in check is a constant battle. So, I love receiving gifts that motivate me to exercise or make exercise fun. Receiving and giving gifts that encourage physical fitness can show how much you care for your loved one’s health. Even if your loved one is not a fitness fanatic, there are lots of ideas to get him or her moving.
A pedometer is a great gift idea, as it is small, portable, and relatively inexpensive. We should all be getting in at least 10,000 steps a day, and wearing a pedometer is a great incentive to get moving. Other ideas include a subscription to a fitness magazine, an exercise ball, or maybe some hand weights. For many, a new exercise outfit or pair of walking shoes is all it takes to get motivated. Maybe your loved one has always wanted to take yoga or pilates classes. Instructional DVD’s would allow her to learn the basics in the privacy of her own home before joining (or instead of joining) a class.
Maybe your loved one is a fitness fanatic or an avid sportsman. If that’s the case, follow his or her lead and research the sport. You will probably find that there is a new gadget or piece of equipment that is all the rage. I have been told that a golfer can never have too many putters, and there is always a new one version on the market! Well chosen golf accessories are always appreciated. Many fitness fanatics love to work out with music, so gift cards for on-line music to be downloaded to MP3 players might be a good idea.
My dad likes to walk, but wasn’t sure he was getting his heart rate up high enough. So, my brother gave him a heart rate monitor for Christmas. Now Dad knows how fast he needs to walk to get to his target heart rate. Don’t forget the kids in your life. Gifts that promote exercise and playing outside are wonderful ideas.
Balls of any kind are always fun, and are generally inexpensive. I also like jump ropes. We take jump ropes on long car rides, so the kids can work out their wiggles during pit stops. A jump rope rhyme book can add a little additional incentive to get jumping. There are also pogo sticks, roller skates, hula hoops, and even dance videos to get the young ones moving. So the next time you are stumped for a gift idea, consider sports gifts - something that will motivate the recipient to get moving. After all, there is no better gift than good health.
