The gift of fitness keeps on giving

By: MICHELLE ROTELL - For the North County Times | Friday, November 25, 2005 11:21 PM PST ∞

It is two days after Thanksgiving, and the holiday shopping season has officially begun. There are so many things that need to be purchased, so many places to go, so many holiday parties to attend ---- and then comes the wrapping of presents.

Most people find it hard to make time for their own health and fitness. This time of year is so hectic, and the workouts end up on the back burner.

This is the most important time of the year to continue working out and watching what you eat. The hardest pounds to drop are the last five pounds, so why would anyone want to gain that in one month ---- only to make it a goal to lose it the next month?

Give the gift of fitness to yourself and to your family. If you have not thought about what you are going to give your loved ones, give them the gift of improved health and fitness.

The gift of fitness is something that you can give to just about everybody on your list ---- from your parents, to your spouse, a friend, your siblings, children and even an employee or co-worker. It is an invaluable gift that keeps on giving.

When you give someone the gift of fitness, it shows the recipient how much you care about their well-being. By giving them this gift, you are providing them with unlimited health benefits as well.

We all know that exercise can help people stay slim and fit. But did you also know about all the other great benefits of exercising?

Daily physical activity reduces stress and can help you sleep better. Fitness has been linked to reducing the risk of many diseases and to warding off depression. Researchers believe that strength training can help prevent osteoporosis. Exercise also improves self-esteem and increases stamina.

Many people on your shopping list would find these fitness benefits incredibly invaluable. If the people on your list are like most of us, they have probably even mentioned how they want to drop a few pounds or just get in better shape.

Experts say that about 62 percent of Americans are currently on a diet. By giving the gift of fitness, you are helping provide them with extra motivation. They will be more motivated to start an exercise program when given a gift that helps them immediately take action to kick start their workouts. Personal training gift certificates and gym memberships are especially good for helping with motivation.

While fitness gifts are valuable, they do not have to be expressive. Gifts can cost as little as five dollars or as much as a few hundred dollars.

In order to make sure that you are not offending someone by buying them a gym membership or another gift of fitness, you will need to do it tactfully.

Men ---- and some women ---- may be offended and think there is a hidden meaning to your present. Make sure there is a letter of love and appreciation along with your present for reassurance that your gift is not a quiet way of telling them they are "fat."

It may help if it is a joint gift for you as well, so your loved ones know that fitness is important to you, too ---- and it is not just for losing weight.

Fitness Gifts