HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS THAT WON'T BREAK THE BANK

Having trouble finding gifts for that hard-to-buy-for loved one on your shopping list? We've got the equipment and accessories you need for the latest fitness trends. Read our top 5 gift ideas that you'll feel great about giving and won't break your budget this holiday season.

Recently I have been writing a series of “How to use X” blogs where I break down how to use various pieces of equipment from free weights to the treadmill to the Bosu to the kettlebell. I know what you are thinking: “Are there exercises that I should always do, regardless of the piece of equipment I am using?”

Excellent question! The answer is, “Yeppers peppers. 100%!" There are 4 types of exercises that I consider non-negotiables: squats, balance exercises, multi-directional motions, and intervals.

Recently I have been writing a “How to use X” series of blogs. I have covered everything from how to use equipment such as the foam roller and the bike and how to set-up a home gym.

Today we discuss the “how to–ness” of enacting that knowledge to achieve your fitness goals — specifically your fat and weight loss goals.

So far my “How to use X” series has focussed on how to use various pieces of fitness equipment — from the treadmill to free weights.

Today … drum roll please … the “how to” of creating YOUR perfect home gym!

Notice the emphasis on the word your!

So far in this “How to use X” series I have covered everything from cardio staples, such as the bike and the treadmill, to strength staples, such as dumbbells.

Today … the kettlebell!

Don’t be fooled by the Bosu’s bright blue squishy dome-like exterior; it is not a children’s bouncy toy or a ginormous whoopee cushion! The Bosu is a multi-faceted, medium-sized piece of exercise equipment; incorporate it into your cardio warm-up, use it to spice up traditional weight exercises such as squats or lunges, or use it to breathe new life into your core routine.

So far in my “How to use X” series I have tackled everything from how to use the treadmill to how to use cables.

I have — until now — shied away from a column on the “all-in-one gym.” Why?

Recently I have been writing a series of “How to use X’ blogs, covering how to use everything from cardio machines such as the elliptical and the treadmill, to free weights, to small pieces such as the stability ball and foam roller. I even broke down how to properly warm-up and cool-down. By now you are all glorified exercise mavens — or at least on your way there!

What have we not talked about thus far? Larger pieces of workout equipment such as cable machines or full home gym equipment. Today we fill the void.

I love that I can legitimately wear yoga gear 24/7, am comfortable strutting around a gym and know what to do with dumbbells, barbbells, bosu & stability balls, TRX and a whole slew of other fun fitness gear. And get this…I actually think working out is fun…yup..FUN! But I know I am part of a minority here. I know that LOTS of people just generally dislike (or maybe go as far to say…despise) the gym. So what to do?

So far my “How to use X” blogs have covered how to use equipment — everything from the elliptical, to the treadmill, to dumbbells, to the foam roller. The basic premise is that it is one thing to own a piece of equipment, but to use it — and stay injury free — you need to know how to use it!

Today, the piece of equipment I am covering is the body itself!

When it comes to reaching any health goal, consistency is key! What is more “convenient” than your birthday suit! (And no, you don’t have to be naked!)

Plus, it is finally spring. The nice weather is here — use it as motivation to get moving! Who doesn’t love being outside?

Basically, slather on some sunscreen, grab your hat and some water, and get outside!