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## Gift-Giving and Fitness: Navigating a Sensitive Subject
The latest fitness trackers, trendy athletic wear, and gym memberships often top holiday wish lists. But experts warn against gifting fitness-related presents, emphasizing that what may seem like encouragement could actually lead to unintended consequences.
More than just wanting to be fit, exercising can often be tied to a desire to change one’s appearance. “While physical activity generally offers numerous mental and physical health benefits, exercise has become closely associated with weight loss, and fits into common societal messaging that sends the message not being good enough unless you look a certain way,” the experts warn.
“Never buy someone an unsolicited fitness or nutrition-related gift,” warns Leslie Schilling, a registered dietitian specializing in sports nutrition and disordered eating recovery.
Even with the best intentions, these gifts can carry a hint of “you need to change.” This can be particularly harmful for adolescents whose self-image is still developing.
For parents who are eager to encourage a less active child to be more active, Ellen Comas, an eating disorder therapist explains, explains that “fitness is very personal. Supporting someone’s autonomy is greatly important. When someone else gives us a fitness tracker or a personal training gift_ certificate, it can inadvertently strip away that sense of autonomy, which is critical for joyful, sustainable fitness and health practices”
Instead of promoting a love of movement, these gifts can backfire.
A study found that pressuring someone or making them feel judged can decrease motivation to be more active. They “might actually prolong someone from engaging in healthy behaviors because they feel hurt by it” Ryan says.
Parents who wish to encourage a love for movement should focus on making exercise fun and non-judgmental.” Imagine inviting children to join you for activities like nature walks, ice skating, or sledding without any mention of calories burned or “earning” dessert. If kids aren’t naturally drawn to sports or structured exercise, suggest taking a fun approach.”
But what if a teens begs for the latest yoga pants or cool fitness tracker.
Be mindful.
With trendy athletic wear, experts agree it’s a safer bet Since “It’s
become everyday wear for many people. But still, consider asking why they desire specific items. While smartwatches are trendy, experts caution against them, especially for children. “ I don’t recommend giving children wearables. Period. I
think it is really dangerous,” ”ADN Programming” what seems innocent can slide into obsessive thinking,” emphasizes Ryan. “It’s like a little eating disorder brain on your wrist.”
Even if kids want smartwatches for communication or because
everyone else has them, remember that “dieting and weight loss can definitely be a precursor to someone getting an eating disorder,” say experts
So, ask teens requesting fitness
products what they hope to gain from them. Understanding the difference between wanting to improve performance versus feeling the need to change appearance is crucial. Remember, the intention might simply be the need to feel accepted for who they are.
When in doubt, choose a different gift. Remember, the gift might be remembered long after the New Year’s resolutions fade away.
What are some alternative gift ideas that encourage a positive relationship with fitness?
## Navigating the Sensitive World of Fitness Gifts
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s become increasingly debated, especially as the holidays approach: fitness gifts. Joining us is [Guest Name], a [Guest Credentials]. Welcome to the show!
**Guest:** Thanks for having me.
**Host:** So, as the holiday season kicks off, we’re bombarded with ads for fitness trackers, gym memberships, and the latest workout gear. But there seems to be a growing consensus that these gifts might not be as well-received as we think. Can you shed some light on this?
**Guest:** Absolutely. While presented with good intentions, fitness gifts can inadvertently send the message that the recipient needs to change their body or appearance. This can be especially harmful for individuals struggling with body image issues or disordered eating. As echoled by experts [[1](https://www.townandcountrymag.com/leisure/sporting/g45296109/fitness-gifts/)], exercise has become strongly associated with weight loss, fueling societal pressures to conform to certain body ideals.
**Host:** That’s a really powerful point. So, what’s the best way to support someone’s fitness journey without resorting to potentially harmful gifts?
**Guest:** Focus on experiences and encourage autonomy. Instead of a gym membership, perhaps suggest trying a new activity together like hiking, dancing, or rock climbing. Encourage healthy habits by making cooking a healthy meal together a fun outing. What’s crucial is to avoid any gift that implies a “need for change.”
**Host:** That makes a lot of sense. Empowering individuals to make their own choices seems key here. Any final thoughts for our listeners heading into the holiday season?
**Guest:** Absolutely. Remember, the most thoughtful gifts come from a place of respect and understanding. If you’re unsure, simply ask! Openly communicate with loved ones about their interests and preferences. And always prioritize their well-being above all else.
