Gyms will be packed with the new year approaching with people wanting to take off excess weight, or those that have pledged fitness resolutions for the new year. With this in mind, you may want to consider giving the gift of fitness. Health and fitness related gifts are something that everyone can use and you can feel great about giving. Also, these gifts can easily be tailored to anyone on your holiday gift list. Here are some great ideas to give that special loved one for Christmas.

Pedometer- is a small device often worn on your waistband or belt to measure how many steps walked during the day. It is a great motivator to increase your activity level and improve health. A great gift idea is to put one in a stocking with a printed index card with daily step goals for the new year.

Healthy recipe book – Recipe books make great gifts for anyone on your Christmas list and can be tailored to someone on a gluten free diet, vegan diet, diabetic or any other specialized diet.

Fitness dvd- A fitness dvd is a great gift for anyone. Working out at home can be a great option if you don't have time to get to the gym or if you don't have a gym membership. There are endless options available online or at any retail store such as yoga, dance workouts, kickboxing, weight training and more.

Blender or juicer -Blenders and juicers are very popular now and are used to create healthy drinks loaded with vitamins, fruits and vegetables. There are basic low cost or more elaborate food processors and juicers to choose from that can fit any budget.

Gym membership – Many gyms offer short term gym memberships of 1 to 3 months that can be purchased to try out a facility and are great affordable gifts to give to family or friends.

Yoga or workout mat – A mat is a great gift that can be used at the gym or at home for workouts. There are also bags available for carrying the mat for those on your list that carry their mat to the gym or to a fitness class.

Personal training package – Many fitness facilities offer great deals on personal training packages for the new year. There are also trainers that sell packages online that will train at the home, and can be a great option for those that don't have a gym membership, or have hectic schedules.

Fitness equipment – Great gift ideas are fitness exercise balls, workout gloves, hand weights, jump rope, hula hoop, boxing gloves, punching bag, and exercise bands.

Healthy food basket – Create a personalized basket with all natural and organic foods such as raw almonds, all natural protein powder, organic fruits, chia seeds, all natural organic food bars, food journal, fitness magazines and more.