Healthy Choices

Health and wellness is a category that involves everyone, so there are plenty of opportunities for your clients' logos to be seen. We spoke to two suppliers to learn what health and wellness product categories are on the rise and what situations they might be used for.

Fitness Trackers
A trip to a gym could result in a treasure trove of promotional products. A water bottle to keep hydrated, earbuds to help you zone out, a towel to wipe off the sweat—plus the actual bag to tote everything in. Jason Schmidt, project manager at Evans Manufacturing, Garden Grove, Calif., explained that fitness tracking devices, such as fitness bracelets and pedometers, are gaining popularity. "People are becoming more aware of their fitness and overall health, and taking measures to change their lifestyles," he said.

Hair bands
While at the gym, women often use headbands and hair ties so their hair doesn't get in their way while they work out. Brandon Brown, director of art and marketing at West Jordan, Utah-based SnugZ USA explained that headbands are a popular choice because they're fun, functional and allow women to quickly put their hair in a ponytail. "Trending in retail, these are great to throw in your purse, gym bag or travel case," he said. He explained they can be given away at 5Ks, women's events and gyms.

Portion Control Tools
There's a saying: You can't out-exercise a bad diet. That's why eating healthy food and controlling portion sizes is just as important as working out. Over the years, food portions have gotten larger, but there are ways to prevent overeating. "Consumers have been migrating to healthier food and beverage choices along with observing portion size and fluid intake," Schmidt said. "Products such as the 1379 Portion Plate, the 4277 Shake-It Bottle and the PolySure water bottles are sure-fire examples of [products that will maintain] a presence in a healthy home."