The Shredheads Holiday Guide

Since making a huge lifestyle change earlier this year, I'm actually perfectly happy to get workout related gifts this holiday season. Now, if you've got someone who has yet to come "into the light," then you don't necessarily want to get them some weights and a workout DVD.

But if you're a dedicated Shredhead, or if you want to get started, then here are a few ideas (and tips) for holiday shopping.

1. Gym Membership

Nothing says loving like a gym membership. Okay, maybe not, but if you like to run, it might be a good option to get your butt out of the cold. There are tons of great deals going on right now, and it's way better to get a membership BEFORE the New Year's resolution rush happens on January 1.

Do: Research your options and haggle. Membership contracts and enrollment fees (heck, even the monthly fees) are often negotiable. Make sure it has what you're looking for (classes, childcare, new equipement) before you sign. Also, be sure it's in a good location.

Don't: Watch your impulses. This is not something you just want to buy without thought. 

2. Large Exercise Equipment

If a gym doesn't sound appealing, you could always invest in your own treadmill or elliptical machine. Keep in mind that these are pricy, and often times, they end up being clothes hangers. So be sure this is something you really want.

Do: Read reviews, and even search Craig's List for a used one.

Don't: Beware of "great deals" on cheap machines. If you're investing thousands of dollars on something, you want it to be top quality and something that will be easy to use. 

3. Exercise Gear

Now I'm not saying you should wrap up a set of weights, but die-hard 30 Day Shred followers might actually appreciate something like this. However, you should figure out what your recipient really wants. There are some awesome and stylish athletic clothes, like Born Fit and Athleta, that offer cool options to the typical running and workout wear.

Do: Talk to your partner about what they want. Think about putting together a little gift pack, like a yoga outfit and mat - not just a couple of weights in a box. If you don't know their sizes, get a gift card!

Don't: Just buy something because it has "fitness" on the box. 

4. Workout Class Membership

It can be really nice to get someone a membership to a workout class - kickboxing, yoga, even dance (if that's what they like). Unless you know their schedule, you might think about getting them a gift card. And for an extra touch, make sure that they've got childcare covered for the class times. You could even add the gear that they might need for the class.

Do: Figure out what's most feasible in terms of location and times.

Don't: Get them a membership to a class that they won't take. It's a waste of money and time.

5. Workout Games (for Wii and other systems)

I have to admit that I haven't had much luck with these games, although some folks have given My Fitness Coach, and Jillian's new Fitness Ultimatum 2010 good reviews. If you've got a gamer, then this might be the way to his/her heart.

Do: Read the reviews of these games (here's ours on Fitness Ultimatum 2009) - we've done a few here at Shredheads.

Don't: Just because it looks cool, doesn't mean it is. 

6. Running Watch

As a runner, I can definitely see the appeal of having a fancy watch. In fact, I admit to coveting them when I see people with them at races.

Do: Read our reviews - Bill owns a couple and has given his honest opinion about the Garmin 305 and the Garmin 50.

Don't: Make sure your partner really wants one of these before you get it. They're expensive.

7. Shredheads Gift Pack

Hey, it wouldn't be the holidays without a Shredheads shirt! May we suggest snagging one of our shirts from Spreadshirt.com (or I still have a few old embroidered ones left), and pairing it with a 30 Day Shred DVD from Exercise TV. You can also get them a gift card there so they can download whatever the heck they want.

Even better, get them a #shredheads Twitter necklace (as seen in the Cool Mom Picks Holiday Gift Guide). Cool, right?

What other fitness related gifts would you like to see under the tree this year?

Comments

[Bill]

Under the "workout class" recommendation, don't forget about something like Stroller Strides for moms (and dads, ahem, yes I did Stroller Strides!). Depending on your budget, you could get just a few classes or go all-out and get the Stroller Strides Bob Stroller with all the gear and everything... But like with the other big gifts, make sure it's really wanted before going for it.

[Fairly Odd Mother]

What? No mention of a preordered Mominatrix book for that special person in your life? Not only does the idea of being naked in front of someone else push me to exercise, but I'm pretty sure Kristen has some good calorie-burning tips in the book! (heh)

[Mominatrix]

But of course, FOM! LOL

http://www.mominatrixbook.com

Also, Spreadshirt.com has 25% off today for Cyber Monday - get a Shredheads shirt on sale!

[Esther Brady Crawford]

I just started the 30 Day Shred (again!) ... last time I only made it one day, ha. Love that you put this whole site with tons of great info for Shredheads. :)

[Alex]

Just ordered my 30 day Shred DVD from ebay. Bring on the pain.

[Beckie]

Hi!
Thanks for noting BornFit in your Gift Guide! We really appreciate it!
The Girls at BornFit