It’s that time of year again. Love them or despise them, the holidays are upon us once more, and if you are a last minute shopper, you are not alone.
A vast majority of people procrastinate doing their holiday shopping because they simply can’t decide on the perfect gift. Here are some ideas for affordable last minute gifts for the fitness buff in your life.
No-Tie Shoe Laces
These are a handy accessory for most triathletes. When you’re short on time in the transition of a race, every second counts, including the time it takes you to lace up your shoes. You can skip that step entirely with quick tie shoe laces: just pull your shoes on and go. Not just for triathletes, these laces are especially handy if you are pregnant and have trouble bending over longer than absolutely necessary. For under ten dollars, we like the Yankz Sure Lace System.
Athletic Socks
Granted, this is not a glamorous one, but socks are a much appreciated gift for any athlete. An active person can never have too many pairs, given socks’ limited shelf life after several washes. His or her feet will thank you for a new soft, cushy pair to pamper their wheels. Touted as “the perfect running sock” for superior comfort, for about ten dollars a pair, Balega’s Hidden Comfort sock really is a superior gift.
Gourmet Coffees or Herbal Teas
Help your fitness friend get out of bed a little easier for that early morning wakeup call with her favorite brew. Buy an oversized mug and include her favorite bag of beans or tea bags with a little note of gratitude for your pre-dawn therapy running sessions. A coffee gift card is always the perfect gift in any amount, as well.
Makeup Tote for Her Gym Bag
A gym bag is a very personal item, and can be difficult to choose for someone else. Style, size, color, and options can be overwhelming, but a makeup bag allows for a greater margin of error. Include some non-specific items, such as cotton balls, Q-tips, small bandages for blisters, and travel size shampoo and conditioner (if you know her favorite brand). We like the Sephora Signature Clear Large Cosmetic Case, transparent for locating her items easily.
Specialty Shower Soaps, Gels, or Candles
Just like Oprah’s Favorite Things, you can offer a gift of your favorite shower and bath items. Pamper your exercise partner with the scents you love best; soaps and gels for in the shower, and a candle for post-workout shower ambiance.
Specialty Cookbook for Healthy Meals
This is a gift you can give your spouse that will benefit the whole family. Promote togetherness in the kitchen with a great cookbook to inspire you throughout the year to cook and dine healthfully. We like The Athlete’s Plate, Real Food for High Performance, by Adam Kelinson.
Swimming Gear as Gifts
Do you have a swimming fanatic in your life? Give the gift of a new swim cap, or pair of goggles. Caps rip and weather quickly, and goggles become scratched and worn. Treat the swimmer in your life to new inspiration with cute colors in both. We like Speedo’s Vanquisher Goggle and Speedo’s Silicone Swim Cap, both available at SwimOutlet.com
Subscription to a Favorite Fitness Magazine
Whether you are in need of a gift for your favorite musclehead, or your father-in-law golf enthusiast, consider a subscription to the magazine of his preference. The benefit of this versatile gift is even if your loved one already has a current subscription, most companies will extend the life of his subscription, rather than doubling up each month.
