Consider giving a fitness-related present

Ah, the perfect Christmas gift – is there really such a thing?
I know in years past, I have exhausted myself trying the find just the right gift for my loved ones.
Of course, they loved it and appreciated it so much.
But what is so funny is that I looked at my husband, Mike, the other day and said “What did I get you for Christmas last year?”
He replied with “What did I get you last year?”
Well after some brain searching, we both remembered the gifts and said how much we loved them.
My point being why do we rack our brains and kill ourselves to make sure everybody has the perfect gift?
It is important to show the special people in our lives how much we love them, but perhaps there are some different, more meaningful ways to do just that.
After all, we know that Christmas if not about buying gifts, but about a much more important, life-changing event. It is a time of celebration indeed. 
After some thought, I have come up with some ideas that might just help you with your Christmas shopping this year.
Of course, they will be related to health and fitness, what else!
Buy that special person a membership to your local fitness facility. And better yet, go with them and help them with their health endeavor.
Talk to the staff and set them up an appointment to tour the facility.
Most facilities offer an orientation as well. The orientation will help them feel more comfortable about going to a new place.
Purchase a gift certificate for personal training for that special someone who might not buy it for themselves.
They will be well taken care of, and this will be a gift that could really make a difference in their quality of life.
If a home workout is preferred, then buy a few inexpensive fitness tools, and you will be on your way.
It takes very little to get a good overall workout at home. A stability ball, dumbbells and elastic tube will get you on your way. 
Tennis lessons, golf lessons, skiing lessons or any other activity lessons are a great idea for someone who is interested in becoming more active.
Also, the equipment to help them get started would be great too.
Purchase dance lessons for the two of you. Dancing is an effective and fun alternative to traditional aerobic exercise. It burns calories, brings a smile to your face and it is a tremendous amount of fun. Plus, you will be the life of the party at the next wedding.
One of my favorite gifts is just getting the little cards from my children that I can redeem for something I want. Without a doubt, I choose time with them.
Whether it is a weekly walk together, a healthy lunch together or a family hike, those are the gifts that are priceless to me.
How about exercise clothing or a gift certificate to a favorite sporting goods store? After all, you can always work out better if you are looking the part.
These are just a few different suggestions that are gifts that keep on giving and will not quickly be forgotten.
Merry Christmas and healthy New Year.

LINDA STOLLINGS is a personal fitness trainer in Bristol, Tenn. E-mail her at or visit http://www.fitprescriptions.com.