Well, it's that time of year againthe holiday shopping season is in full force. Have you thought about what you are going to give those people on your 'hard to shop for' list? Instead of another tie for your dad or music CD for your sister, why don't you give them a truly unique and invaluable gift? Give them the gift of improved health and fitness.

The gift of fitness is something that you can give to virtually everybody on your shopping list -- from your parents, to your spouse, a friend, your siblings, an employee or co-worker, even your children. And it's a gift that is invaluable. After all, who doesn't want to look better, feel better, and be healthier?

And, it's a gift that you can truly feel proud to give. When you give someone the gift of fitness, you are helping him open a door to better health (both physically and mentally). It's a gift that genuinely shows the recipient how much you care about their well-being. By giving the gift of fitness you are providing them with unlimited health benefits.

Of course, we all know that exercise can help people stay slim and fit. But, do you also know about all the other great benefits of exercising? Daily physical activity reduces stress and can help you sleep better. Fitness has been linked to reducing the risk of many diseases and to warding off depression. Researchers believe that strength training can help prevent osteoporosis. Not to mention that exercise also improves self-esteem and increases stamina.

Certainly many people on your shopping list would find these fitness benefits incredibly invaluable. If the people on your list are like most of us, they've probably even mentioned how they want to drop a few pounds or just get in better shape. In fact, experts say that about 62% of Americans are currently on a diet. By giving the gift of fitness you are helping provide them with extra motivation (which is one of the biggest obstacles in getting fit). They'll be more motivated to start an exercise program when given a gift that helps them immediately take action to kick start their workouts (personal training gift certificates and gym memberships are especially good for helping with motivation).

While fitness gifts are incredibly valuable, they don't have to be expensive. Gifts can cost as little as $5 or range into the $100s of dollars. Here are a few suggestions in the various price ranges:

Under $15:
? Resistance Band/Tube (also makes a great stocking stuffer and is an especially valuable gift for a frequent traveler)
? Dumbbells
? Jump Rope (also makes a great stocking stuffer)
? Exercise Mat

$15 - $35
? Fitness Ball
? Online Personal Training Program (custom designed for the gift recipient)
? Home Exercise Video (also makes a great stocking stuffer)
? Heart Rate Monitor
? Pedometer

Over $35
? Full dumbbell or barbell set
? BOSU
? Bicycle
? Yoga Kit
? Fitness clothing

A gift that supports health and wellness will be appreciated for years to come and may even turn someone's life around. The gift of fitness will make the recipient feel specialthey'll know that someone cared enough to give them the opportunity to improve their health. And, giving a gift that will help someone lead a healthier life is also one of the most rewarding gifts you can give. So why spend another holiday season searching for the perfect gift only to end up picking up another gift certificate or calendar? Surprise everyone this year and give the gift that comes from the heart and truly keeps on giving throughout the New Year and beyond. And don't forget yourselfyou deserve the gift of fitness too!