10 Healthy Holiday Gift Ideas
Written by Calvin Sun
The holiday season is upon us and we thought it might be helpful to provide a few gift-giving ideas for the fitness fanatic in your life. Whether you’re shopping for yourself, your training partner, or a loved one, here are a few ideas for the health-conscious, performance-minded folks in your life.
1. Headspace Subscription
Meditation has a variety of scientifically-proven benefits including improved focus, attention, ability to work under stress, and mental resilience. I personally used Headspace to get started with meditation a few years ago and I still recommend it to my clients and athletes who want an easy and accessible method of learning mindfulness-based meditation. Headspace even has themed packs including ones specifically for sports performance. No pilgrimage to an ashram required.
2. The 5-Minute Journal
The 5-Minute Journal is a great way to enjoy the benefits of journaling in a time-efficient manner. Each day starts with an inspirational quote, prompts to help you cultivate a sense of gratitude and appreciation, and in the evening, you’ll have some prompts to help you self-reflect and do some introspection. Many users report feeling happier and experiencing more positive thought patterns throughout their day. Best of all, it really only takes 5 minutes of your day to complete.
3. WellnessFX Blood Testing
One of my mentors once told me, “If you’re not assessing, you’re guessing”. Experience has only served to substantiate that maxim. I recommend some form of blood work for all of my clients and athletes at least on an annual basis. WellnessFX offers comprehensive testing packages that include tests for hormones such as testosterone, inflammation markers like hs-CRP, vitamin deficiencies, and cardiovascular biomarkers.
4. Mobility and Massage Tools
If you’re in the gym on a consistent basis, you likely already know the importance of having a consistent mobility and flexibility routine. One of the easiest ways to optimize your orthopedic health is through regular mobility work. Check out my post titled “Our Top 5 Must-Have Mobility Tools” for some ideas.
My personal favorites are the Rumble Roller ($45) and the Theracane ($29).
5. Hydro Flask Insulated Water Bottle
The Hydro Flask’s claim to fame is its ability to keep drinks ice cold for up to 24 hours and hot drinks steaming hot for up to 6 hours. It’s especially useful for training and competing in the hot summer months when thermoregulation is key. Another nice benefit is that it can double as a foam roller when you’re traveling and as a blunt force instrument if you find yourself in a dark alley.
6. Nutribullet Blender
The Nutribullet is a great option for mixing up post-workout shakes, smoothies, and other healthy drinks. While not quite as powerful as top-of-the-line blenders such as a Vitamix or Blendtec, the Nutribullet’s design offers the convenience of using the blending jar as an on-the-go container.
7. Invictus Merchandise
If you’re looking for fresh workout gear, look no further than the Invictus online store. You’ll find a variety of stylish workout gear for both ladies and gentlemen, as well as Invictus-branded Nike Metcons.
Shop now at https://shop.crossfitinvictus.com/
8. Cryotherapy Session
Whole body cryotherapy has a variety of health benefits including enhanced athletic recovery. Nitrogen is used to cool the chamber down to -200 degrees Fahrenheit and the benefits are felt within minutes. I personally go to San Diego Cryotherapy though you can easily search for “cryotherapy” in your local area. Most facilities offer gift certificates and packages.
9. Post-Workout Mineral Soak
Epsom salt baths are a great way to recover after a tough training session. I make it a point to take an Epsom salt bath at least once a week after training to aid in recovery. There are a variety of brands available online and in stores though I would suggest a brand that comes nicely packaged and is suitable for gifting. Check out “Village Naturals Muscle Relief Mineral Bath” ($19) or “San Francisco Salt Company’s Muscle Soak” ($14).
10. A Book For Their Library
Books are a great resource for learning and improving your knowledge base. Check out “The Whole30” book series by Dallas and Melissa Hartwig or the “Primal Blueprint” series by Mark Sisson if you want to learn more about Paleo-style nutrition. Want to learn about mobility? Check out “Becoming A Supple Leopard” by Kelly Starrett. Want to master Olympic weightlifting? Consider picking up a copy of “Olympic Weightlifting: A Complete Guide for Athletes & Coaches” by Greg Everett. Want some thoughts on mental toughness? Pick up a copy of “The Invictus Mindset: An Athlete’s Guide To Mental Toughness”. For the aspiring coach or trainer in your life, there are numerous books that you could gift. Check out my post titled “5 Mobility Books Every Coach Should Read” for some more book recommendations.
Happy Holidays!
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