We’re constantly bombarded by ads for exercise gear and fitness equipment that can be very expensive. I love looking at the ads for things like miniature mechanical bulls that are supposed to be great for your core, but they cost $400. I also like the new video game systems that let you play tennis in your living room. The system typically costs $350, and then you have to buy the games. Let me give you some Fitness Wish List ideas that won’t break the bank.

Make Your Feet Happy

The most important piece of fitness apparel and exercise equipment is a good pair of shoes. Good shoes that aren’t simply fashionable but are supportive and fit just right would cost between $40 and $140. Most good athletic shoes can be bought for $60 to $90. Mom, Dad or your grandparents would rather pay for good shoes than to have an injury develop because of shoes that weren’t supportive enough.

When you shop for shoes, be sure they have a good arch support and firmness in the heel area. Shin, knee and back pain can be caused by shoes that look good but aren’t right for your feet. Ask the sales person to help you find the best shoe for your feet.

Have a Ball!

Another good piece of exercise equipment that’s easy to use in your home is the Swiss Ball. A Swiss Ball can cost between $20 and $40, so this won’t break the bank. You could it put on your list, and almost anyone would be able to give this as a gift.

Which Swiss Ball is right for you? Well, the answer is based on your height. The taller you are, the larger Swiss Ball you’ll need. There are a wealth of exercises you can do on a Swiss Ball to improve your core (abdomen, love handles and back), your posture, strength and flexibility. It’s lightweight and can easily be put away. An added bonus: It makes a great exercise chair while you’re doing homework at your desk.

Jump on In
A great stocking stuffer idea is a jump rope. These can cost between $2 and $20. Nicer ropes have swivel handles to keep the rope from tangling. More expensive ropes will even count your jumps for you.

Jumping rope is a great cardiovascular exercise! Besides keeping your heart healthy, jumping rope is excellent for strength development in the lower legs, which can make your legs look more shapely. If you’re an athlete, jumping rope can really improve game performance.

Sign Up!

Why ask for a piece of exercise equipment when you can have the whole gym? A membership to the Y or a health club can cost much less than one piece of home exercise equipment such as a treadmill, weight machine or stationary bike. A membership to the Y or a health club will provide you with lots of exercise equipment options, exercise classes and maybe even a swimming pool.

A membership at the Y can be less than $100, especially if you ask for the student discount. Remind your parents that they could get a family membership, and the whole family could benefit!

Remember the best fitness wish list doesn’t have to be expensive; it just needs to contain ideas that you’ll use. Fitness equipment helps only when you put it to good use.

I hope you have a blessed Christmas season and a wonderful New Year.