Sondra E. Z. Hines, AILT, is an adjunct professor of health & wellness and is certified to teach group fitness exercise and Zumba. Wednesday Wellness - Fitness News You Can Use is published weekly. Email: sondraezhines@yahoo.com.

Qcitymetro readers, whether you celebrate Christmas or simply exchange presents at home or work, here are a few of my holiday gift suggestions — for men, women, or children — all with a focus on health:

1. Mast Brothers Organic Chocolate Candy Bar: It’s the holidays; why not indulge in chocolate that is 72 percent organic coca. And research concludes that chocolate provides a health substance (flavonoids) shown to help prevent heart attacks and reduce the risk of cancer. Remember to indulge moderately to avoid adding excess holiday weight. Cost: $9.50. For more details: frenchbroadchocolates.com.

2. Thorlos Socks: What justifies spending $11 for a pair of socks? First, the company (based in nearby Statesville, N.C.) offers a money back guarantee. And, reportedly, the socks provide light cushioning to support overworked feet and are made specific to various sports: running, walking, hiking, tennis, etc. Although I’ve yet to try Thorlos socks, I’m going to treat myself to a pair based on wearer feedback. “Thorlos are the only socks I buy, and it's been that way for years,” says one satisfied customer. The company’s website sums it up best, “Thorlos provide real value for consumers looking to invest in their own health and well being.” I agree! Available at sporting goods stores. Cost: $10.99 and up. For more details: www.thorlo.com.

No. 9: Mizuno's Wave Prophecy Running Shoes.

3. Champion C9 Sports Bra: A good sports bra is my best friend when leading group fitness classes, running or performing my individual workouts. This affordable, functional yet cute bra is made exclusively for Target. Cost: $17

4. Conair foot spa foot bath: Whether your choices of exercise are running, aerobics, basketball, or after a long day at work, reward tired feet with a relaxing soak. Instead of visiting a spa, save money by doing this at home. Available at retail outlets and drugstores. Cost: $19.99

5. HoMedics neck and shoulder massager with heat: This is just what the doctor ordered after an arduous workout, from lugging heavy items or to ease aching upper body muscles. Available at retail outlets and drugstores. Cost: $19.99 

6. 479° Popcorn, Foodie Sampler: One of my favorite snacks is popcorn. Unlike kernels found on a grocery shelf, this popcorn is beautifully packaged, 100 percent organic, gluten-free, all natural, has no trans fat and is low in calories. And their caramel popcorn uses organic agave syrup. Decadent flavors in the foodie sampler include: Fleur de Sel Caramel, Ginger Sesame Caramel, Black Truffle + White Cheddar, Pimentòn de La Vera, and Chipotle Caramel + Almonds. The sampler gift box holds five boxes and each box contains 1 quart of popcorn. Cost: $35. For more details: www.479popcorn.com.

No. 10: BMW 2011 Cruise Bike.

7. Sonic Flex Care Toothbrush or Sonic Professional Toothbrush: I realize a toothbrush is not considered a glamorous gift, but yellow teeth aren’t too glamorous either. Daily flossing and brushing helps eliminate periodontal disease, when left untreated leads to other health problems. Available at retail outlets and drugstores. Cost: $39 and up. 

8. HoodieBuddie: Here’s a cool jacket designed for men, women or children on your list, with built-in ear buds. Cost: $48. To order, visit: www.hoodiebuddy.com.

9. Mizunos’ Wave Prophecy Running Shoes: This is a perfect gift for the runner — male or female — who takes their jogging seriously. Seven years in the making, these shoes have a patented Wave Plate. The plate replaces a traditional rubber sole with a pair of shock-absorbing struts designed to propel you forward. Cost: $200. Available at: Nordstrom.com.

10. BMW 2011 Cruise Bike: Leave it to BMW to make riding a bicycle look almost as sexy as driving one of its sleek vehicles. This luxury gift is for the person who enjoys peddling in style. Cost: $1,199. Available at: bmw-bikes.net.  

Honorable Mention: Organ Donation: Recently in this column, I shared details on the importance of organ donation, particularly for African Americans. A gift of organ donation could help as many as 50 people with one single act. Cost: Free. 

Fit Tip

When shopping this holiday season, park farther away from stores and use the extra time to sneak in a quick walk. If shopping solo, be sure it’s light outside (when parking far away) and wear comfortable shoes — preferably sneakers! 

Until, next time, I wish you Merry Fitness, good health and wellness! 

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