The Worst Fitness Gifts to Give or Get This Season

FITNESS Magazine

By Marianne Magno

Thinking of giving the gift of fitness this year to your aspiring gym buddy? Here are some weird, tacky gifts you'll want to cross off your shopping list immediately.

Related: The Complete 2011 FITNESS Gift Guide


Sauna Suit

There's nothing like showing your appreciation to your loved one by telling her you think she needs to sweat more while looking like a space cadet. We'd rather get a day pass to a spa. ($12.99, Amazon.com)

Related: Don't Sweat It: Deodorants That Work


Waist Trimmer Belt

If you wouldn't want to give (or receive) a girdle as a present, then you should cross this waist-slimming belt off your shopping list. We think belly dancing and Pilates are more fun ways to work your abs, anyway. ($12.99, Amazon.com)


Shake Weight

We still can't sit through a commercial for this free weight without feeling like we're watching something inappropriate. Avoid getting strange looks at the holiday party and give a spiffy set of dumbbells or kettlebells instead. That's fitness equipment they'll actually use. ($26.95, Amazon.com)

Related: The 15-Minute Kettlebell Blasters Workout



Home Pole Dancing Kit

We had a blast when we tried S Factor, but a stripper pole for your home like this Peekaboo Party Home Pole Dancing Kit says "Bachelorette Party!" and not "Happy Holidays!" Treat your loved one to a fun fitness class by buying vouchers or paying for dance classes. ($124.99, Amazon.com)



Sports Bras

You might sing the praises of your trusted sports bra, but we suggest leaving this intimate decision between your friend and an expert bra-fitter. Go for a cute workout outfit instead.

Related: Perk Up! The Best Sports Bras for Your Size


Digital Talking Scale

Today's gadgets can do more than tell you your weight. Some can measure body fat, BMI, and even talk to you. No matter how cool the device, however, we'd rather spend the holidays focusing on something other than actually hearing the digits on the scale. Besides, the scale doesn't pick up on social cues on when to hush up and just say, "You know what? You look great!" ($69.95, Amazon.com)


Chafing Cream

The recipient of this gift might be a dedicated runner who goes through boxes of BodyGlide, but how about something that doesn't imply you've been thinking about his or her inner thighs? A gift card to a sporting goods store will do the trick instead.


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