Holiday shopping, gift wrapping, bow tying – it’s the most wonderful time of year again, when we’re all running around crazy trying to get a million and one things done. With less than two weeks until Christmas and a very busy schedule I’m definitely falling a bit behind. My shopping isn’t done, my cards haven’t been mailed, nothing is wrapped and between training, teaching and running after a toddler all day I’m starting to seriously worry that I won’t get it all done in time. With that said I’ve decided to keep my holiday gift guide, or this year ,”fit guide”, short and sweet. Check out some of my favorite products and brands of the year that are sure to make any fitness enthusiast or athlete happy this holiday season.
Apparel
The North Face: I’ve been wearing The North Face for longer than I can remember, but almost two years ago I was contacted by the company to join their ambassador program. I’ve since been lucky enough to try out some pretty awesome products… from backpacks and sneakers to jackets and leggings, I really cannot speak highly enough about this brand. It’s functional, fashionable, comfortable, durable and long lasting. Whether you’re working out at the gym or climbing the highest peak, The North Face has you covered. So if you’re looking for gear or apparel for your favorite fitness fanatic this holiday, you are sure to find something awesome for their next adventure at The North Face.
ASICS: As a runner I’ve tried several brands of sneakers, but nothing seems to make my feet as happy as ASICS. Aside from sneakers they also offer a wide variety of apparel, and I’m a big fan of their capri leggings and arm warmers. I’m also lucky enough to be partnered up with this amazing brand, allowing all my family, friends and followers the ability to shop ASICS right on my website. Make the runner in your life happy with a pair of sneakers or piece of apparel that will motivate them on their runs this winter!
*Disclosure: I’m a certified run coach; however, I’m not certified in gait analysis. If you are unsure what model sneaker is most appropriate for you or a friend, I always recommend getting fit by a professional first.
Equipment
StrongBoard Balance: Thanks to social media I discovered the StrongBoard about six months ago. On a whim I decided to enter my husband in a father’s day contest they were running and we won. I have to admit that when I first got it, I didn’t really use it much because most of my workouts were running outside, but over the last few months I’ve been playing around on it more and more; testing my limits and balance with barre workouts, Pilates exercises and yoga poses. I’ve been liking the board more and more and now I step on it almost every day, even if it’s only for ten minutes. I’m also starting to use it for personal training clients. What I like about the board is that you can pretty much take any exercise and enhance it. Last month StrongBoard was nice enough to offer me a promo code for all my friends and followers. Simply go to their website and use code SUE to score free shipping anywhere in the US. The code never expires and can be used anytime, multiple times. You can check out my YouTube channel for a couple of random homemade videos of me using this awesome piece of fitness equipment. I highly recommend StrongBoard Balance, and it’s a great gift idea for the fitness lover in your life that’s looking to add more of a challenge to their exercise routine.
*Disclosure: By using my promo code I may receive a small commission from your order. I’d like to thank you in advance if you choose to purchase a board with my code.
SURGE: I recently became an ambassador for Hedstrom Fitness and I’ve had the opportunity to test out the SURGE and SURGE 3.0. The SURGE uses fluid to create dynamic resistance training creating more of a challenge. I’m still new to using the SURGE, but so far I like it a lot and I’ve also incorporated it with one of my PT clients as well. It makes anything from a push-up to a squat press more challenging as you have to resist and control the fluid inside, ultimately helping to strengthen joints and stabilizer muscles. The SURGE is a great idea for any fitness lover or athlete.
Kids
Strider Bikes: Last fall I partnered up with Strider Bikes and my daughter was lucky enough to get a bike to try out for herself. For the past year she has been riding it, getting stronger and stronger and absolutely loving it. Strider is a balance bike, designed to teach kids how to steer and ride on two wheels with foot propulsion. This helps kids transition straight to bicycle once the elements of steering and balancing are mastered. It’s been amazing to watch my daughters skills and love for cycling continue to grow over the last 12 months. She’ll be taking her Strider to greater heights this winter with the new Snow Skis that my husband and I bought her for Christmas. So if you’re looking for a great gift idea for your kids this holiday season to keep them active, check out Strider Bikes and their Snow Skis!
Islabikes: Yup, I’ve partnered up with yet another bike company and this one friends, is absolutely awesome! We received a starter bike from Islabikes for my daughter a few weeks ago and not only is she beyond excited at her shiny new pink personalized bike, but she is excited that this one has pedals and hand breaks. Now, I must admit I’m not expert when it comes to bikes, but my husband, however, is! And I’m pretty certain he’s even more excited about this new set of wheels for my daughter, and is incredibly impressed at the high quality of components and structure of this bike. Isla offers bikes from balance for kids ages 2+ to kids 11+. I will be posting my full review on this bike in January, but I can already say with ease that we are beyond pleased and impressed, and that we highly recommend Islabikes as a high quality bike for kids.
Cheers to us all getting our last minute shopping and wrapping finished on time! Happy Holidays and happy gift giving!