Getting in Shape: Some Thoughts for Giving in Shape

Tuesday, February 23rd, 2010 at 11:24 am

We all know people who when you pass by the vitamin store in the mall, we’re not surprised to see them browsing the shelves. They are the health conscious one in the neighborhood, the one we all unsuccessfully aspire to be. Or, perhaps they’re new to the whole health scene. Or maybe they represent those among us who are trying to lose those extra pounds…for the third year in a row. No matter what, we all know someone who is “carb conscious.” So, when their birthday comes around, it can be challenging to get them a gift that meets their healthy living. But, at least you have a good starting point. Get your friend something that they’ll actually use and appreciate, or support your newly dieting friend by helping them along their way to a healthier and leaner lifestyle.

One great gift idea, especially for new comers to the fitness world, is to get them a membership to a local health club or gym. Here you can find up to date work-out equipment that your friend can choose from. They’ll also find a supportive and well trained staff. Many health clubs will also offer trainers to guide customers in a work out regime that best suits them. Getting a friend a membership is a great way to motivate someone to get out of the house and get started on shedding the pounds. If your friend is already a health nut, chances are they already have a membership, but that doesn’t mean you can’t give them a free month or two at their club of choice.

If a club membership is too expensive, you might think about getting them something else that will aid them in their quest for fitness. Visit your local sporting goods shop to find inspiration for other appropriate gifts. Health stores offer loads of ideas that can suit almost anyone’s interests. You might get them a health guide on the latest exercise trend.

Just because they want to lose weight doesn’t mean they can’t eat. Many sports shops will have cook books for the health conscious. In the same locations, you can also find useful gadgets such as pedometers that can be worn throughout the day to encourage walking instead of riding or the stairs instead of the elevator.

If you’re looking for a more personal gift, one of the best healthy gift ideas you can get is a fruit basket. Fruit can become an extremely healthy habit. We’ve been learning it since grade school when we first saw the food pyramid. Fruit is just plain healthy; it is totally cholesterol-free and provides many of the essential vitamins that we all require. There’s no question that a fruit basket would be loved by your health conscious friend. There are all sorts of fruit baskets from which to choose, one of which will fit your budget as well as delighting your health-conscious friend. One exception to keep in mind, however, often people who are just beginning a low carb diet are not permitted fruit.

So regardless of whether your friend is a newcomer to the health and fitness lifestyle or has been active for many years, be certain that your gift is supportive of their decision to get healthy or stay healthy.