As I survey the Christmas presents that I have purchased for loved ones this year, I realize that most of them promote a sedentary lifestyle. Books, CDs, and DVDs are great gifts. I like giving them and receiving them during the holidays. Electronic games are fun that the whole family enjoys. Too often these gifts require little from us physically and facilitate gaining those extra pounds we will try and lose as part of our New Year's Resolutions. Are there gifts that would be both fun to receive and encourage fitness and health? I think there are. Here are a few ideas.

While many electronic games require only dextrous fingers and the ability to sit for long periods, there are a category of games that can challenge you physically. The Nintendo Wii has a program called Wii Fitness that works on developing balance and fitness adjusted to your skill level and needs. Both seniors and youth will find activities appropriate to their needs. Several friends have remarked that they enjoy using this not as a game but as part of their exercise regimen. I watched my four year old grandson play a game on the Wii with a wand that he waved like a Samurai. He was so animated and active that I was exhausted watching him. Be aware, as you examine these items, of the possible health benefits associated with the choice.

It might not be in everyone's budget to buy high tech games with balance boards, wands, and HD animation. There are low cost items that will also promote fitness. Obvious choices might be sports equipment like bowling balls, golf balls, and soccer balls. A Utah Jazz basketball should be a very popular item this year. Clothing such as running socks, sports shirts, shoes, and helmets or pads for a given sport would encourage activity.

For adults you may want to consider balance balls, yoga mats, free weights, exercise videos, and exercise bands. IMX has a useful "GYM in a BAG" set that uses bands and pulleys to promote muscle strength and balance. It is practical, affordable, and effective. A nice family gift might be a year's membership to the local community recreation center.

The best fitness gifts need not cost anything. A gift I would thoroughly enjoy receiving is time walking with my son or wife. A gift certificate good for two hours a month with my son as a walking partner wouldn't cost him anything and would make his father very happy.

If you keep the goal in mind of health and fitness, you will find the ideas all around you. Stay smart and shop with the idea of promoting health and you may find your gifts will give back throughout the year.