For those of you still putting together your list for loved ones, here are some suggestions that have the potential to change someone’s health and fitness for years to come. I say “potential” because you actually have to use the equipment on a consistent basis and put forth a reasonable amount of effort in order to see some sort of benefit from it. Treadmills were not designed to help dry laundry and exercise balls were not intended as toys for kids.

Regardless of the equipment you are considering purchasing, I strongly suggest you invest in some form of education to go with it. Locally, Finer Fitness (www.finerfitness.ca) supports all of its equipment with a line of educational products that will help you design programs for it. Videos and books are great ways to supplement your program and to make sure you are following the most effective path to reaching your goals. Owner Mike Yaworsky and his staff can suggest ways to maximize your use of the equipment you are considering.

We are also lucky to have the largest publisher of exercise books in the world here in Windsor. Human Kinetics Publishers (www.humankinetics.com) is a candy store for anyone interested in health and fitness. It is located at 475 Devonshire Rd., and is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you have never been in the store, check it out.

Here are a few common pieces of equipment that could be great additions to your home gym:

– Treadmills and stationary bikes are still the top sellers this time of year. Both are fine choices. As long as you are talking to experts who know their stuff you should not be steered wrong. Make sure to ask about warranties and in home service. Once this equipment is set up, you do not want to have to bring it back to a store for servicing.

– Dumbbells are a great addition to any home gym. Most people will not need any over 35 pounds.

– A sturdy, adjustable bench is a must if you are going to be using free weights of any kind. Make sure to check the weigh capacity of the bench to ensure it is appropriate for the person who will be using it and the weight they will be lifting.

– There are all kinds of multipurpose strength training machines available for a range of prices. Yaworsky, of Finer Fitness, says that most stores should be able to find one that meets anyone’s budget. The great thing about machines is that they are generally easier to use and less risky for beginners. Even if you are at an advanced level and don’t have a partner, the machine can work as a spotter when you are lifting heavier weights. One important consideration is to find a piece of equipment that does not require you to move a lot of cables and pieces around. Most people find this to be a pain in the butt.

– Yaworsky’s stocking stuffer of the year appears to be the Gym Boss — a simple piece of equipment that looks like a pager to help build interval style workouts. It costs under $30.

The above items are just a start. If you are interested in dance, yoga or Pilates, there are home packages you can purchase that are inexpensive and highly effective.

Happy shopping!