If you have a friend, loved one, or a coworker who is actively working to lose weight, instead of a stocking full of candy this year, why not give them a gift to help support their goals? But before you run out and buy them a gym membership, get a gauge on the person you're buying for. What would suit their needs and their lifestyle? You probably want a gift that says "I want to support you" or "Keep up the great work" versus "You need serious help."
Also, ask yourself this question: is this person specifically requesting a gift to help them lose weight, or do you just want to get them something that they can use in a healthy way? We'll help you find the right gift no matter who you're shopping for.
Banglz Everyday Wrist Weight Bands ($26.89)
For the fashionable woman on your list who wants to burn some extra calories while doing every day activities, Banglz are a great option. These wrist weights turned bracelets are available as ½ or one-pound bracelets.
Striiv Pedometer
Striiv is not your usual pedometer, sure it tracks steps taken, miles walked, and calories burned, but this little gadget also encourages its user to do more physical activity with games, challenges, and even opportunities to earn money for charitable donations!
Gaiam TV
For someone who wants structured exercise they can do in the comfort of their own home, consider giving the gift of Gaiam TV. Membership not only means unlimited access to yoga and fitness classes, but also programming and information on nutrition, healthy living, nature and culture, spiritual growth and so much more; there is something for everyone. Membership can be purchased at gaiamtv.com for $9.95 a month and the first 10 days are free.
Sessions with a Registered Dietitian
Healthy eating is one of the most important elements of weight loss/maintenance, but scheduling, insurance and cost are roadblocks for many people. FitDay makes talking with a registered dietitian convenient and affordable. With easy access online, dietitians and clients can discuss and work through nutrition information, facts and goals anytime and anywhere. The first week is free at Fitday.com. Memberships are between $90 and $99, depending on your plan.
Gift Cards
Gift cards are a great way to present healthy options, but still allow the receiver to choose whatever they like.
Cooking classes: These are fun social, learning events. Individual chefs, catering companies, specialty grocery stores, or restaurants are all possibilities for a variety of class offerings.
iTunes: You can't go wrong with an iTunes gift card. Everyone loves music and listening to music often leads to movement so why not inspire someone to move more?
Sporting Goods Store: These stores offer a number of items from clothes and accessories to sports equipment and gadgets. Just about everyone can find something they want or need here, health related or not.
Groupon: Groupon offers everything under the sun including loads of health related products and services including reduced pricing on boot camps, gym memberships, healthy meal delivery services, exercise clothing, and so much more.
Mandy Seay is a bilingual registered and licensed dietitian who holds both a bachelor's degree in nutrition and in journalism. After gaining 30 pounds while living abroad, Mandy worked to lose the weight and regain her health. It was here that she discovered her passion for nutrition and went on to pursue a career as a dietitian. Mandy currently works as a nutrition consultant and freelance writer in Austin, Texas, where she specializes in diabetes, weight management and general and preventive nutrition. She recently published her first book, Your Best Health, a personalized program to losing weight and gaining a healthy lifestyle. Please visit Mandy's website at Nutritionistics.com.
