The best fitness gifts they'll appreciate post-holidays
Are you still searching for a gift for that someone who's its addicted to fitness?
Here are some great ideas, at a variety of price points, that will make the fitness lovers in your life jump for joy – and probably do a few burpees as well.
For the one that needs to track every move
Definitely a showstopper kind of gift, but ideal for the tech savvy fitness freak in your life. The Apple Watch Nike + ($489 -$529) is the ultimate tool for anyone that loves to work out and track their progress. Apple Watch Nike+ features exclusive Nike Sport Bands, GPS, a display that's more than two times brighter, water resistance to 50 meters, a powerful dual-core processor, and watchOS 3. It comes with the Nike+ Run Club app ready to go and easily accessible from a number of custom watch faces, which means fans of the app won't need to carry their phone with them on runs.
For The Gym Go-Getter
For the woman that loves gym garments that do double duty when it comes to street style, Adidas has what they need. The women's TechFit Bra ($48) and Performer Mid-Rise Three Quarter Tights ($55) combined with the Pure Boost X Training Shoes ($130) have all the functionality you need to workout at your best. After training, fashion forward pieces like the Adidas by Stella McCartney Run Metal Jacket ($250) and Packable Backpack ($120) will let them keep going for the gold (and silver, and bronze) in style.
For the Outdoors Enthusiast
Winter hiking is an excellent way to fight cabin fever and get fit. But when the weather outside is frightful, staying warm, dry and safe is key. Wet, icy conditions are a leading cause of slip and fall injuries in Canada, and being injured is a surefire way to get thrown off track for fitness goals. The new Ice+ line of hiking boots from Merrell for men and women ($180 - $250) feature Vibram Arctic Grip soles that provide three times greater traction on wet icy surfaces. This is some pretty serious technology – lightweight, warm and waterproof, the designated thermochromatic lugs in the sole sense when the temperature drops below zero and even change colour to signal icy conditions.
For The All-Weather Running Fanatic
There's still a whole lot of winter to get through after the holidays. Help the runner in your life be ready for the elements and stay on track through to Spring with the right gear. Nike provides all that for men and women, with good looks to spare. A great combo for the guys is Nike Lunar Epic Flyknit Shield Running Shoes ($200),Nike Shield Running Tights $90, Nike Thermasphere Element Running Hoodie ($100), topped off with the Nike Hypershield Flash Running Jacket ($320) for extra reflective visibility in low light.
For New Parents
Let's face it, it can be hard enough as a new parent to find time to have a shower or a cup of coffee, never mind fitting in time to work out. For those with babies nine months to about three or four years old, one of the best options is to multitask – bring the wee ones along on a run with a proper running stroller. The Bugaboo Runner is available as a complete model ($865) or just the chassis ($430) for those who already have Bugaboo strollers, they can click on their existing seat. It has a number of features that ensures the smoothest ride for you and your babe: a large air-filled front tire, fixed front wheel that reduces wobbling and built-in suspension.
For The Studio Class All-Star
Whether it's Pilates, Yoga, Spinning or any applicable fusion of the above, studio class enthusiasts love to rock pieces that keep them comfortable but stand out from the crowd. Canadian brand Titika Active Couture has a wide range of leggings with mesh or cut-outs, strappy sports bras, slouchy sweaters and more that have an edgier look and soft feel. The Metro Bra ($68) and Radius Legging ($64) will get you through class, then top it off with the Deep V Sweater ($82) to look just as good afterwards.
…Don't Forget About the Little Things
Your Fitness Lover will appreciate stocking stuffers that keep them on track, so instead of those extra-sugary treats, try something that falls under the clean eating category! Krave Jerky ($7.49 - $8.99) is free of artificial ingredients, a good source of protein, has a soft texture (no leather here!) and comes in four delicious flavours. Fermented foods are hugely important when it comes to nutrition, and Genuine Health is all over this concept with a range of products including fermented Greek yogurt proteins + and fermented vegan proteins + bars ($3.50) and protein powders ($3.50 for single serving size) . These little wonders are delicious, packed with protein and gut-friendly! And – because the right socks can make or break a workout, Stance has great options for men and women ($16.50 - $53) that are moisture wicking, extra cushy, and look way, way better than your average sock.