10 gifts I love for fitness enthusiasts
For those people on your Christmas list who like to be on the go, these gifts will equip them, entertain them and keep them safe and warm.
From training programs and event registrations to just the right earphones, here are 10 gifts for the fitness enthusiasts.
1. Gaiam Restore Dual Temperature Body Wrap
If your workout leaves you with aches and pains (and who doesn't have them at some time?), you can try this reusable wrap filled with a blend of flax calming lavender and chamomile that conforms to fit. The wrap is microwaveable and freezable and retains its temperature for 30 minutes or longer. Gaiam Restore Dual Temperature Body Wrap, $24.98; order at www.gaiam.com and www.amazon.com or buy at Target stores.
2. Gaiam Sure Grip Headband
This two-inch headband would make a great stocking stuffer. Even though it's a small item, a good headband that isn't too tight, loose or hot is a needed accessory.
The headband is made of moisture-wicking fabric that helps keep you cool, while the silicone "strip" on the inside helps keep the headband securely in place and flyaway hairs out of your face. Gaiam Sure Grip Headband, $9.98, order at www.gaiam.com and www.amazon.com or buy at Target stores.
3. Registration for a road race or bicycle event
Entry fees for races and bicycle events can add up pretty quickly. So, paying fees to a favorite event may be greatly appreciated. Or, find a fun, new out-of-town one and offer to do the driving the morning of the event or go the night before and pay for a hotel.
A few popular local races are: OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, $75; Indianapolis Monumental Marathon and Half Marathon, $60 (full) and $50 (half), price for two days only Jan. 1-2; Carmel Marathon and Half Marathon, $75 (full) and $55 (half), until Dec. 31.
For bicycle enthusiasts, the two-day Hilly Hundred in southern Indiana (2014 cost not determined yet) is a good one.
4. Yurbuds Inspire Talk for Women sport earphones
Designed to fit smaller ears, these earphones have a one-button microphone system with track and call control. They are compatible with Android and Apple OS. These in-ear buds are sweat and water-resistant and allow for ambient noise awareness. Plus, the company guarantees they'll "never hurt or fall out." Yurbuds says the ergonomic fit delivers consistent, premium sound quality. Yurbuds has lots of other options, too, for anyone who likes to run or work out with music. Cost is $39.99; order online.
5. Lezyne Power Drive XL bike light
There's nothing more important when cycling in the early-morning or evening hours in the wintertime than a good, bright light. Housed in CNC-machined aluminum, the Power Drive XL provides 475 lumens of LED light and allows for 180 degrees of visibility. The Li-ion battery can be charged with a wall adaptor (included) or by plugging it into a USB. Included in the loaded box are composite handlebar mounts, a helmet mount, a spare battery and a storage case. Available at www.Lezyne.com. Lezyne Power Drive XL, $99.99; with fully loaded package, $139.99.
6. Training programs for runners/walkers
Whether your running and walking friends are novices or veterans, they should appreciate getting a free training program to help get in shape for their next race. There are many from which to choose locally. A few good ones are: Ken Long & Associates Bricks to Bricks Training Program for spring/summer events, $50 until Dec. 15, then $60-$70; National Institute for Fitness and Sport Mini-Marathon Training Program, $60-$80; Best Personal Training,
7. Ahnu Women's Sugarpine Hiking Boot
Female hikers on your list will go for this functional and stylish lightweight hiking boot with bright colors and waterproof technology. It has Vibram rubber outsoles and Ahnu's signature Numentum technology for underfoot support and comfort, along with moisture-wicking mesh lining. The boot, which costs $140, can be worn on city streets and rugged trails alike. Ahnu also carries the $155 women's Montara boot and several boots for men, too. They can be ordered online at www.ahnu.com and purchased locally at The Shoe Fits, 1512 W. 86th St.
8. Threads 4 Thought Firefly Legging
For an active woman who is environmentally conscious, these workout leggings are a good choice. They're made from a blend of 88 percent recycled polyester and 12 percent spandex that's brushed on both sides for a soft feel. These two-tone and solid leggings, which cost $55, can be worn for yoga, running or working out in the gym. Threads 4 Thought also offers Half Lotus Crop Leggings ($52) and a zip-up jacket. They've available online at www.threadsforthought.com.
9. Go Ape! Treetop Adventure
For the person who'd rather have an adventure than any fitness gear, Go Ape! at Eagle Creek Park would be an unusual treat. This outdoor treetop adventure course features a series of zip lines, Tarzan swings, rope ladders, bridges, swings and trapezes. You're equipped with harnesses, pulleys and carabineers and receive a 30-minute training session before you're turned loose for two to three hours. On Saturday and Sunday (Dec. 7 and 8), guests receive $10 off their tickets, plus $10 of their ticket goes back to the Eagle Creek Park Foundation. Reservations can be made at www.goape.com or by calling 1-800-971-8271. Cost for adults 18 and older is $55. The park's address is 5901 Delong Road.
10. Annual pass or gift pack from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources
For someone who loves to tramp around in the outdoors, select a $99 State Park Holiday Gift Pack. It includes a 2014 resident annual entrance permit to all 32 state parks and reservoirs, an Indiana State Park Inns gift card worth $70, a one-year subscription to Outdoor Indiana magazine, and a 2014 Outdoor Indiana full-color calendar. A $129 gift pack includes a $100 Indiana State Park Inns gift certificate.
Or, you can get an annual entrance permit that alone costs $40 for Indiana residents, and $20 for Hoosiers age 65 and older.
Gift packs (available through Dec. 31) and annual passes can be ordered at www.InnsGifts.com or at state park and reservoir property offices.