Presents for parents? Check.
Toys for the kids? Check, check.
A special memento for your loving spouse who does all the stuff around the house that you don't want to do? Check, check, check.
The Christmas list is complete but what about a gift for yourself to finally shed those extra pounds and get fit in the new year?
Membership at the Port Moody recreation complex has its privileges as it's the only Tri-City public facility to offer its clients access to a weight room as well as drop-in gym programs, drop-in fitness classes (aerobics, spinning and yoga), a walking/running track and a spa area (hydrotherapy spa and steam room).
Below, some testimonies from the centre's regular users about what works for them:
MEGAN MEREDITH, 14
Member for: two years
Initial goal: "My fitness goal when I first joined was to get into better shape and become a healthier person. I wanted to try a new experience and try out different exercises. I also wanted to improve my cardio strength."
Goal now: "This goal has evolved because now that I've tried out different workouts, I know what I need to improve on and also what I like. Now that I've gotten into better shape, I work on maintaining my cardio and toning up. I am still trying to become healthy and fit."
Faves: "My favourite part of the rec centre is the wide variety of activities you can do there. I love doing Zumba, spinning, yoga and aerobics. There is something for everyone to try."
MARINA MEREDITH, 16
Member for: three years
Initial goal: "My fitness goal when I first joined was to get in shape for figure skating as I used to compete. I wanted to improve my cardio, strength and flexibility. I also desired to lose weight for my overall health."
Goal now: "By doing yoga and spinning classes, I was able to achieve my goals for figure skating. My endurance increased, along with my flexibility. I was also able to lose weight from spinning and aerobic classes, forming a healthier lifestyle."
Faves: "I like the spinning studio for a hard but beneficial workout. I also enjoy the aerobic studio for classes that tone my body and increase my strength. The yoga studio is also a great place to clear my mind, relax and increase my flexibility."
AL PERCIVAL, 61
Member for: three years
Initial goal: "When I first joined, I wanted to feel stronger and to develop a more firm, conditioned physique."
Goal now: "It's a lifestyle, with gym workouts three times a week (or more if time allows). As my fitness progressed at the gym, I incorporated athletics into my weekly routine by joining the Greyhound masters track and field club. To support my track progress, I continue to apply strength and flexibility routines at the gym, which has allowed me to steadily increase my sprinting times."
Faves: "The gym staff are great. They are all certified, have many years of experience and are always there to answer questions. The gym equipment is current and well-maintained, and the facility is clean. I really enjoy the floor-to-ceiling windows that allow natural light in as well as offering a greenbelt view."
MATT LAPOINTE, 17
Member for: two years
Initial goal: "After playing both hockey and lacrosse at competitive levels for most of my life, I was sidelined for almost three years for medical reasons. After getting the 'all-clear' from doctors, I had to immediately get back into game-shape for the upcoming lacrosse season and, with Trina's help and guidance, that was accomplished."
Goal now: "I'm now training almost every day and am now in what is probably the best shape of my life. I plan on continuing my training (both strength and cardio) and strive to play junior hockey next season."
Faves: "For me, walking into the Port Moody rec centre is really like walking into my second home. I've spent so much time between hockey, lacrosse and working out at the gym that it really is just a place that I love to be. The staff are always friendly and ready to help with whatever it is one would need, and no matter when I go, I'm almost guaranteed to see familiar faces using the facilities."
