Great Gifts for the Fitness Fiend in Your Life [Help a Reader Out]

'Tis the season to be gifting and as many of you know, health nuts can be difficult people to shop for. The usual standbys of holiday goodies don't work unless you know whether they fall into the Everything in Moderation camp or the Sugar is the White Satan camp, something that can be hard to sneak into everyday conversation. On first thought, workout clothing might be a good option until you realize the minefield that is buying someone else tight spandex. Next up: workout gear from their sport of choice. Except that unless you also love the same sport you will have no idea what to get them thereby making you prey to any passing salesman with an eye on a fat Christmas commission. And while there are a few items that are universal to every sport, nothing says "never look me in the eye again" like a fur lined jockstrap:

Don't worry, the manufacturer says you will be girding your chilled loins with naught but the finest faux fur.

On the subject of gifts for fitness fanatics, Another Suburban Mom asks

"Could you please address good underwear to wear while exercising, as I find that my thong gives me a front wedgie during kickboxing. Also, what are good gifts for my aerobics instructors. I am thinking that a small loaf of my eggnog poundcake might be a faux pax."

Since the term "front wedgie" makes me giggle like a 12-year-old boy in the feminine hygiene aisle, I'll answer that one first: see above. Kidding! Others may disagree with me but I think thongs are the worst workout undies ever. Not only do they have the "front wedgie" (and back wedgie, duh) problem but they also give really weird lines under spandex if you have anything over 0.02% body fat. My solution for kickboxing is a nice tight (and opaque!) pair of capri workout pants. Preferably black so I don't get sweat stains that cause me to make up childish nicknames. For more on workout underwear, check out my Public Wedgie Picking post.

As to your second question, I am stumped. Although I am really impressed that you remembered to get your group fit instructors a present! (And also, please send me the recipe for eggnog poundcake. I have never heard of such a thing but now I must try it!)

VaMomof2 shares your frustration:

"I need Christmas ideas for my husband. Last year I bought him a TRX because I read about it here and he loves, loves, loves it. Anyone have any new ideas for great workout equipment or accessories for men?"

My first thought is P90X - it's pricey but men (and lots of women) really love it! Plus it would play so nicely with your TRX! But that's where my child-wearied brain poops out. So in order to save your loved ones from Just Another Gift Card, what are your best ideas for fit and healthy gifts? What do you guys give your group fit instructors/personal trainers/weight floor stalker? Any good gift ideas specifically for exercise equipment for men? What are your thoughts about thongs as workout attire?