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Labette Health

10 healthy gifts that won't break the bank

Dec. 15, 2019—Let's face it: Finding the right holiday gift can be tricky. There's your friend who always regifts, your oh-so-fussy niece and your mom who insists she doesn't need a thing. What's a gift giver to do?

Here are 10 ideas designed to please nearly everyone on your list. All are all under $50—some are even free. Best of all: These gifts keep on giving. That's because each one can help boost the health of the person who receives it.

1. DIY relaxation kit. Stuff a festive basket with a few candles, add some incense or specialty soap, and top it off with a gift card for some new music.

A cartoon woman sits on the edge of a bathtub. She says, Welcome to Relaxation Station!

2. Get-active gift certificates. No need to shell out any cash here. Just give the gift of your time. Offer a few hours of free babysitting so a friend can squeeze in gym trips. Or pledge a week of brisk walks with someone who could use an exercise buddy.

Two women jogging. Text says: #ExerciseBuddiesForLife

3. Workout playlist. Share your favorite get-pumped tunes to help someone push through those last few weight reps or bike laps.

A woman with earphones says: Wow, Grandma really made a legit playlist!

4. Specialty socks. This oldie-but-goodie gift can be a surprise hit—modern running socks can help long-distance runners stay on track all year round, keeping their feet dry and blister-free. It's a great idea for hikers too!

A man jogs next to a river. Text says: Good socks = happy feet.

5. A kettlebell. This hand weight looks like a cannonball with a handle on top. It's great for cardio, strength and flexibility training. And because it can provide an intense workout in a fairly short time, it's a good match for anybody with a busy schedule.

A yellow kettlebell with a cartoon face says: I'm pumping iron!

6. A recipe collection. Customize a mini cookbook, and treat the chefs in your life to healthy recipes you know are crowd-pleasers.

Two women look at recipe cards and says This recipe always brings down the house.

7. Resistance bands. Lightweight and portable, these strength-training tools are easy to stuff in a suitcase. And the travelers on your list can use them to work out nearly every muscle group.

A woman uses a resistance band. Text says: Resistance bands are a great gift for frequent fliers.

8. Pedometer. Consider giving everybody in your family this step-counting gadget for some friendly competition. See who can rack up the most steps every day. It's a low-cost alternative to pricy fitness trackers.

A family walks up a hill holding hands. Text says: Come on, we have to get our steps in!

9. Exercise mat. Help a friend with their floor routine—surprise them with this soft cushion for yoga, stretching, crunches, planks and push-ups.

Hand weights and a yoga mat that says: We're going to be best friends!

10. Running belt. Help the joggers (and walkers) on your list keep their keys, phone and other personal items within reach while they work out.

The torso of a woman jogging with a running belt. Text says: Look at all the things she can carry!

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