Christmas Shopping For The Fitness Buff

It's the holiday gift that keeps on giving: fitness equipment. 

As consumers make New Year's resolutions to lose weight and get in shape, they will need a few items to reach those goals. 

One popular item is a set of resistance bands. Touted by many fitness experts as a convenient, travel-friendly tool for a workout, resistance bands are reasonably priced gifts for family members and friends.

For those who want more difficulty, a pair of shake weights may do the trick. While some critics have doubted the effectiveness of the product, one report shows otherwise. 

Yet, many gift-givers may choose the traditional dumbbell for their recipients who want big arms.  

According to Fitness magazine, beginners should use two different dumbbells: one weighing between 3 to 5 lbs; the other, 8 to 12 lbs.  

With all of the options available, "gifters" should be able to find the right fitness equipment that will make a "strong" impression.