Those Gift Cards Can Help You Get Healthy

By Marjie Gilliam

If you received a gift card for the holidays and are looking to get healthier in the new year, check out these budget-friendly health and fitness ideas:

• Exercise DVD's, books and videos – Available for nearly every type of workout and health and fitness topic, and ideal for those just starting out or who want to exercise in the privacy and comfort of their own home. Popular this year are dance, strength training, nutrition and aerobic instructional products.

• Pedometer – Wearing a pedometer keeps track of how many steps you've taken throughout the day. Experts recommend being active enough to take about 10,000 steps (approximately five miles) most days of the week for healthy adults, more steps if weight loss is desired. The elderly or those unaccustomed to exercise should consult with a physician as to appropriate number of steps. Pedometers vary in cost depending on features provided, but generally start at about $20 for a basic model. Generally speaking, taking under 5,000 steps during the course of the day would be correlated with a sedentary lifestyle, 5,000-9,999 steps would be slightly to somewhat active, 10,000 and over would be considered active.

• FitDecks are innovative deck of card workouts that are a budget-friendly alternative to expensive gym memberships. Former Navy SEAL Phil Black has just released seven new FitDecks aimed at those seeking "high-performance" results, combined with massive calorie burn. High Performance FitDecks include Core Blast, Plyometrics, Cross Training, Cones and Vertical Jump. Visit www.fitdeck.com.

• Wrist weights – Easy to incorporate into any fitness routine, wrist weights add extra intensity by slightly increasing the amount of resistance being used. Typically ranging from 1 to 5 pounds, wrist weights are designed to slip right over the hand or use Velcro to ensure a more precise fit. Wrist weights are especially useful for those who have problems with gripping or holding onto objects. They can be used alone or with dumbbells, bars or machines to boost resistance.

• Resistance bands – Can be utilized in any type of workout and are great for anyone who travels frequently or who doesn't have the space for exercise equipment. Lightweight and portable, resistance bands come in different color-coded strengths and are a convenient way to condition, strengthen and tone.

• Workout gloves – Using exercise equipment can take its toll on the hands over time. Workout gloves provide protection, cushioning and can aid in maintaining a safe grip when using equipment.

• Gym bag – A gym bag makes a great gift for someone who works out on a regular basis or plans to start an exercise program. Handy for storing extras like a towel, water bottle, cell phone, change of clothes or extra pair of shoes.
If you're not a numbers person, trying to keep track of padlock combinations can be difficult and frustrating. Traditional locks require keys, or make you spin a dial and remember confusing sequences of numbers. Wordlock (www.wordlock.com) allows you to set and change combinations using keywords and the alphabet instead of numbers. Models are available for luggage, bikes, gym lockers, job sites and more.

• Massage – Who doesn't appreciate feeling pampered? Massage is a wonderful way to de-stress and regroup during the hectic holiday season.

• Personal training – A great choice for anyone looking for a kick-start or further development of a fitness program.
Gym membership – Many gyms offer no-commitment, month-to-month options for use of their facilities, especially during the holidays.

Marjie Gilliam is an International Sports Sciences Master certified personal trainer and fitness consultant. E-mail: marjie@ohtrainer.com. Her Web site is www.ohtrainer.com.