2014 Ask the Trainer holiday fitness gift guide
If you’re looking for something special for the fitness fanatic on your Christmas list, stress no more; I’ve done the research for you. Simply pick the gift from the list below that best matches the personality of the person you’re buying for, and score the perfect gift without the hassle and stress of holiday shopping.
Noise-canceling headphones
Research has proven that music is one of the best ways to increase the intensity and performance level of your workout, but noise-canceling headphones take workout jams to a whole new level by eliminating background noise and creating a concert-like atmosphere right in your headphones. Wearing these things is like being in your own world, so if the person you’re buying for loves music, hates distractions and enjoys intense workouts, noise-canceling headphones could be the perfect gift.
DemonBells
If you’re looking for a gift for the person who has everything, DemonBells may be the answer you’re looking for. DemonBells are fully functional kettlebells that are artistically shaped into faces of five different demons that will make a statement as well as get the attention of anyone who sees them. These things are really cool-looking and will add some character to an otherwise boring piece of pig iron. They will definitely be a conversation piece at any CrossFit box or gym. DemonBells come in 16, 26, 35, 54 and 72 pounds. To order, go to www.DemonBells.com and pick the demon of your choice or get the whole set if the person you're gifting has been really good this year.
"Eating for Life" cookbook
Helping someone lose weight and get in shape is one thing, but teaching them how to prepare healthy, good-tasting meals is another. That’s why I suggest "Eating for Life" by Bill Phillips as an excellent resource for my clients to learn to cook healthy foods and spice them without adding lots of extra calories. This book was a game changer at my house, and it would make an excellent gift for anyone who wants to live the fitness lifestyle while still enjoying the taste of good food. "Eating for Life" was a New York Times best seller; it is sold at most bookstores and is also available at Amazon.com
Blender Bottle
It’s no secret that anyone interested in working out and building muscle needs to eat plenty of protein throughout the day, but if you’re on the go, it’s easier said than done. That’s why you’ll need a good-quality shaker bottle so you can mix up a shake or smoothie anytime you want without leaking it all over the place. The Blender Bottle sports mixer is an excellent gift because it’s leak-proof, stylish and durable. It also comes with a patented blender wire ball that mixes any drink or powder without leaving clumps at the bottom of the bottle, making it a must for serious fitness enthusiasts. I included this in my 2013 holiday gift guide as well but had to mention it again because it’s the only protein shaker I ever owned that didn’t eventually leak. To order, go to www.blenderbottle.com and pick from a variety of sizes, shapes and colors.
Train magazine
As the old saying goes, “knowledge is power," and Train magazine is loaded with practical and useful research and workout advice from the leading experts in the field of fitness. This magazine has a lot less advertisement and more practical knowledge than most of the other fitness magazines on the market today, and I can honestly say I find at least one new thing I can use with every issue. Also it hits fitness from every angle, so if you’re a crossfitter, body builder, powerlifter, athlete or the average fitness enthusiast, Train magazine has something for you. So if the person you’re buying for is passionate about working out and staying in shape, buy them a gift that will keep on giving all year with a subscription to a credible fitness magazine like Train.
Any one of the above ideas would make an ideal Christmas gift, so pick the one that best suits the person you’re buying for, and enjoy the holiday season.
