By Dave Patania
Personal trainer

Question: I need some ideas for fitness gifts for the holidays. Any ideas?

Answer: There are many things you can give that will satisfy any fitness guru. A favorite of mine is a heart rate monitor. They are inexpensive ($40-50), lightweight and great for helping people determine and track their exercise training zones.

The monitor has a chest strap/transmitter that fits comfortably around the chest and a wristwatch that records heartbeats per minute as you exercise. Stick with a basic model; it will last a long time. You can get one at any exercise equipment store.

Another appropriate gift is a new gym bag for carrying clothes and workout gear. Portable CD players made especially for working out are nice as well. They come with extra-durable shells and carrying cases that are sturdy and keep the sweat away from the device.

Nutritional supplements are a hot ticket this season, too. Protein powders, bars and drinks are always great gifts. Just be sure to go to a specialized supplement provider that sells quality stuff.

Gift certificates to athletic apparel or sporting goods stores are all useful as well. A gift certificate to a gym or session with a personal trainer is a thoughtful present, too. Just make sure that the recipient has mentioned that such an arrangement may be something that he or she would be interested in pursuing. I have had my fair share of grumpy, reluctant clients who really didn't want to exercise but had to because a friend or loved one splurged on the sessions. If your gift is a membership, make it a trial or short term with an option to extend so that you don't waste your money.

Fitness books make also nice gifts. Or be creative and make a fitness basket with supplements, workout socks, a fitness magazine or a T-shirt for a personal touch.

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Contact personal trainer Dave Patania by e-mail: davpatania@aol.com