Holiday Gift Guide for Runners, Obstacle Course Racers, and Hybrid Athletes

Posted on November 27, 2024 by Jennifer FIsher

Struggling to find the perfect gift for the athlete in your life? This guide is packed with innovative gear and products that cater to runners, obstacle course racers (OCRs), and hybrid athletes. From performance-boosting essentials to recovery tools, these gifts will inspire and support their training journey, whether just starting out or an elite in the sport. Also, the good news is that you can find everything on Amazon for the easiest shopping ever!

1. Fuel Goods: Athlete-Approved Nutrition

Stay fueled and ready to conquer any race or training session with Fuel Goods. This service connects athletes with the best nutrition products on the planet, from energy gels to protein powders to snacks (and even recovery items), delivered straight to their door. Perfect for those who prioritize performance and quality in their diet. As a fit foodie, speaking personally from my heat (and stomach), I would be thrilled to be gifted a box or subscription to this service. I met the ladies of this women-owned business at The Running Event convention, and they are so inspiring!
Learn more about Fuel Goods

2. Tumaz Yoga Mat Carrier with Removable Yoga Strap

PSA: Complement your sport with yoga, it’s a win-win! And, get you a good yoga mat bag to make life easier. This versatile carrier does double duty as a yoga strap, making it ideal for post-run stretching or yoga sessions. Lightweight, adjustable, and with lots of pockets for the little extras you need to take along, it’s perfect for runners and hybrid athletes who value convenience and functionality. Great for home, gym, or on-the-go workouts.
Shop the Tumaz Yoga Mat Carrier

3. Go Fit Revolve Roller

Recovery made smarter! The Go Fit Revolve Roller is a portable tool designed to relieve muscle tightness and improve flexibility. With a revolutionary design that is completely customizable for each use, it offers a deep tissue massage that’s perfect for sore calves, hamstrings, quads, IT band, or whatever after a tough run or workout. Three levels of “massage rings” can be designed in any order you need to address your trigger point of the moment. I love this recovery tool for runners.
Explore the Revolve Roller

4. Hyperwear HYPER RUCK® Rucking Backpack

Upgrade their training with this rucking backpack designed for both functionality and durability. It’s perfect for weighted runs, hikes, or strength-focused workouts. The ergonomic design makes it comfortable to carry while boosting endurance and strength. Holds up to 60lbs and available empty or with 10, 20 and 30-pound weight. Or use your own plates, sand bells or battle ropes to make heavier. I think this is the best rucking backpack around!
Discover the HYPER RUCK® Backpack

5. Tifosi Sunglasses

Every runner needs quality sunglasses, and Tifosi delivers on both style and performance. These sunglasses for runners are lightweight, durable and offer UV protection, anti-glare lenses, and a secure fit. Perfect for bright trails, city runs, or race day.
Check out Tifosi Sunglasses

6. Hero Board: Core Training Made Fun

A strong core is crucial for runners and athletes, and the Hero Board turns core workouts into a dynamic experience. This multi-directional fitness board is perfect for planks, push-ups, and more, helping to improve stability and overall strength. Compact and effective, it’s a home gym must-have.
Explore the Hero Board

7. Ultimate Direction Ultra Vesta Signature Series 6.0 Trail Running Vest

Long-distance runners and OCR athletes know hydration is key. A quality hydration pack keeps water and fuel at their fingertips while reducing fatigue, this is one of the best gifts for runners. Look for lightweight, durable designs with minimal bounce and room for small essentials like this women-specific vest I personally use from Ultimate Direction (they have men’s versions too). Check out the Vesta!

8. OCR or Hybrid Race Entry

What better hybrid athlete gift than the promise of adventure? A prepaid entry to an OCR like Spartan Race, trail race, or hybrid fitness competition like HYROX or DEKA is a thoughtful way to keep them motivated and excited for their next challenge. And guess what, I have discount codes that work year-round:

15% off Deka (All US Venues for Fit and Ultra distances): Use code – UBST24-TK88D27
10% off Hyrox (All US Venues and Heats): Use code – FITFORK-10
20% off Spartan Race (All US Venues and Heats): Use code – UBST24-TK88D27

9. Socks and Compression Gear

Give the gift of support and injury prevention with OS1st compression gear. Designed specifically for athletes, their sleeves, socks, and braces provide targeted compression to reduce pain, swelling, and fatigue. Perfect for runners dealing with plantar fasciitis, shin splints, knee pain, or who just want cush, comfy feet (like me), OS1st products are a must-have for performance and recovery.
Explore OS1st Compression Gear

This athlete gift guide 2024 is filled with ideas that any runner, OCR competitor, or hybrid athlete will love. Whether you choose performance-enhancing gear, innovative recovery tools, or a little extra motivation in the form of race entries, these gifts will show your support for their athletic journey.

What are your favorite hybrid athlete gifts, ocr gifts, gifts for spartan race, or runner gear gift ideas?

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission for purchase made through links. Proceeds help offset operating costs at The Fit Fork. THANK YOU!

Pomegranate Pistachio Chocolate Bark: A Lower Carb Holiday Treat

Posted on November 26, 2024 by Jennifer FIsher

The holidays call for a little indulgence, but who says festive treats can’t also be healthy, simple, and stunning? Enter Lower Carb Pomegranate Pistachio Chocolate Bark—a one of my favorite healthy holiday desserts that checks all the boxes. With vibrant pops of pomegranate red and pistachio green against a backdrop of rich, dark chocolate, this treat is sparkling with the colors of the season. It’s the perfect balance of beauty, flavor, and nutrition to wow your friends and family.

Effortlessly Elegant

If you’re looking for easy no-bake holiday desserts, you’ve come to the right place. Making this bark is almost too easy. With just three ingredients —zero-sugar dark chocolate chips, pomegranate arils, and shelled pistachios (optional sea salt) —you can create a professional-looking treat in no time. No need for fancy candy thermometers or complicated techniques; this recipe is beginner-friendly. Simply melt, sprinkle, and set.

To save time, you can grab pre-packaged pomegranate arils, sparing yourself the mess of de-seeding a pomegranate. You can also try shelf-stable dried pomegranate arils. However, if you enjoy the satisfaction of tackling the fruit yourself, go for it—just be prepared for ruby-hued fingers!

This three ingredient dessert recipe also uses zero-carb chocolate chips to avoid added sugar. However, these sugar-free chocolate chips can be swapped with the chocolate chip of your choice – I occasionally do a mix of hand and half chips.

Good-for-You Festivity

This pistachio pomegranate bark isn’t just pretty; it’s packed with goodness.

Antioxidants: Dark chocolate, pomegranate seeds, and pistachios are all rich in antioxidants, supporting your body while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Smart macros: Each serving of this Christmas Chocolate Bark delivers 70 calories, 10g carbs, 5g fat, and 0.5g protein, making it a better choice for those watching their sugar intake or looking for a light, satisfying indulgence.

Versatile & Shareable

Lower Carb Pomegranate Pistachio Chocolate Bark is the ultimate multitasker of holiday treats. Use it as:

A hostess gift: Wrap it in a festive box or bag for a thoughtful and unique present.
A party snack: Break it into shards and arrange it on a dessert tray for instant applause.
A surprise for friends: Hand-deliver little bundles to spread seasonal cheer. Wrap up in a cute reusable holiday container.

Whether you’re gifting it or keeping it for yourself, this bark is bound to become a new holiday tradition.

So why not skip the store-bought treats and whip up a batch of this jeweled delight? It’s proof that a little effort (and only three ingredients) can yield low carb holiday treats that are truly extraordinary.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links meaning I earn a small commission on any sales generated. Proceeds help offset operating costs for The Fit Fork. Thanks!

Lower Carb Pomegranate Pistachio Chocolate Bark

Prep Time

5 mins

freezer

15 mins

Total Time

20 mins

Lower Carb Pomegranate Pistachio Chocolate – sugar free dark chocolate is bejeweled withpomegranate and pistachios. This low-carb chocolate bark is the perfect sweettreat—crunchy, juicy, and oh-so-chocolaty – tastes so indulgent but no addedsugar and only 70 cal and 10g carb per serving

Course: Dessert, holiday

Cuisine: holiday

Keyword: chocolate, low carb, pistachio, sugar-free

Servings: 12 servings

Calories: 70 kcal

Ingredients

8 oz. sugar-free dark chocolate chips like @choczero
4 oz. container pomegranate arils
1/3 cup raw pistachios chopped
1/4 tsp. coarse sea salt optional

Instructions

In microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate in 30 second increments on high – stirring between until smooth and glossy (my total microwave time was 90 seconds)
Stir in about ¾ of the amount each of the pistachios and pomegranate seeds. The chocolate will start to thicken, so move quickly.
Spread out onto a silicone baking sheet or parchment paper. Sprinkle remaining fruit and nut on top, along with a bit of sea salt.
Place in freezer for 15 minutes to firm up before breaking into 12 pieces.

Recipe Notes

Make 12 pieces. Each piece has approx. 70 cal, 10g carb, 5g fat, 0.5g protein.

Raspberry Chocolate Mini Pancake Puffs (Holiday Aebleskivers)

Posted on November 21, 2024 by Jennifer FIsher

Take your breakfast or brunch to the next level with Raspberry Chocolate Pancake Puffs, a delightful treat stuffed with juicy raspberries and melty chocolate.

These little pancake bites are inspired by Danish aebleskivers, a beloved holiday dish, but with a simpler, modern twist. Instead of using a traditional aebleskiver pan (which can be a bit tricky to master), this version makes use of a donut hole or cake pop machine. The result? A convenient, mess-free, mini-sized way to enjoy this festive favorite.

Why You’ll Love These Mini Pancake Puffs

Light and Fluffy Texture: The secret is in the egg whites! Whipping them to stiff peaks ensures the puffs are tender and airy. While stiff peaks may sound intimidating, they’re surprisingly easy to achieve with a few simple tricks:
1. Use cold, fresh eggs.
2. Make sure no yolk sneaks into the whites.
3. Add a pinch of salt to stabilize the peaks.
4. Beat on medium speed for 4–5 minutes (don’t overdo it!).
Healthier Cooking: Unlike traditional aebleskivers, these pancake puffs can be made with little to no butter or oil thanks to the nonstick magic of a donut hole machine.
Endless Customization: While fresh raspberries and chocolate chips are a dreamy combination, the possibilities are endless. Jam, nut butters, diced fruit, or even savory fillings can be used to suit your mood or menu.

A Holiday Treat to Remember

Perfect for holiday brunches, weekend breakfasts, or even as a festive dessert, these cake pop maker pancake bits this are guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Each tender bite is a surprise, with bursts of fresh raspberry and chocolate that make every puff feel like a special treat.

Make it a family tradition: Invite the kids to help fill the batter and discover the joy of biting into a “hidden treasure” inside each puff. It’s an easy way to create holiday memories while enjoying a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Pro Tips for Pancake Puff aka Aebleskivers Success

Don’t overfill: A small dollop of batter, followed by your filling, and then another small dollop on top ensures a neat seal.
Preheat your machine: Like any pancake, these cook best when your cooking surface is hot and ready.
Serve warm: The gooey chocolate and warm raspberries are best enjoyed fresh from the machine. But, if you have leftovers (almost unheard of!), keep them in the fridge, and then microwave on a paper towel-lined sheet for 10 seconds or so.

Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch or just looking to bring a little holiday cheer to your table, this easy aebleskivers recipe is an easy, impressive, and utterly delicious option. With their light texture, customizable fillings, and festive appeal, they’re sure to become a new family favorite.

What’s your favorite filling for pancake puffs? Let me know in the comments and happy cooking!

Raspberry Chocolate Pancake Puffs

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

20 mins

Total Time

30 mins

Stuffed with raspberries and chocolate, these little pancake puffs make a fun, festive treat for breakfast or brunch. Inspired by a Danish holiday dish called aebleskivers – except skipping the traditional tricky pan in lieu of an easy, convenient donut hole / cake pop machine. Bringing egg whites to stiff peaks help the puffs cook up light and fluffy and I always use Eggland’s Best eggs for the great taste and superior nutrition.

Course: Breakfast, brunch, holiday

Keyword: danish, gluten free pancake, holiday, pancake, waffles

Servings: 6 servings (8 puffs each)

Calories: 200 kcal

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs separated
1 cup buttermilk
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
6- oz container fresh raspberries should have about 48-60 in there
48 chocolate chips
Optional: powdered sugar or maple syrup

Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder & salt.
Separate eggs, set whites aside.
Whisk in egg yolks, buttermilk, melted butter and vanilla extract. Whisk until mostly smooth, slight lumps okay.
In a separate bowl, using electric mixers, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form. Ad a tiny pinch of salt before mixing to help them peak.
Gently fold egg whites into batter.
Let cake pop/donut hole machine preheat for about 3 minutes, or indicator light says its ready.
While machine is pre-heating, stuff a chocolate chip into the center of each raspberry; set aside.
Fill each well in the machine with about 1 tablespoon batter.
Moving quickly, add one chocolate-stuffed raspberry to the center of each. The top each raspberry with just enough batter to cover.
Close machine and let cook for about 3 minutes or until indicator light notifies. Pancake puffs with be lightly golden brown when ready.
Use a fork or spoon to carefully remove each; let cool on a paper towl.
Repeat process until remaining batter and raspberries used up. (Note: my machine makes 12 at a time, so I did the process 4 times).
Sprinkle with powdered sugar or maple syrup and any leftover raspberries!

Recipe Notes

Five Healthy Sweet Potato Side Dish Recipes for Thanksgiving and Beyond

Posted on November 19, 2024 by Jennifer FIsher

Sweet potatoes are a kitchen superstar and especially popular around Thanksgiving and the fall season Sweet Potatoes are versatile, nutrient-dense, and naturally delicious – the perfect side dish for active living that will keep you going! Whether you’re looking for something savory, sweet, or a little bit of both, I have you covered with plenty of creative and healthy sweet potato side dish ideas. Here are five of my favorites to complement your next meal:

1. Sweet Potato Grits

Sweet Potato Grit s combine the creamy comfort of traditional grits with the subtle sweetness and earthy richness of sweet potatoes. This dish is a fantastic side for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, pairing beautifully with eggs, greens, or your favorite protein — it also makes a fantastic savory alternative to that traditional overly sweet Thanksgiving sweet potato recipe with marshmallows!

2. Mashed Rosemary Sweet Potatoes with Caramelized Onions

Mashed Rosemary Sweet Potatoes with Caramelized Onions takes a savory approach to this classic side dish. The aromatic rosemary and deeply flavorful caramelized onions make this a standout choice for holiday gatherings or as a sophisticated accompaniment to roasted meats. I loved this mashed sweet potato recipe.

3. Granola Honey Sweet Potato Fries

Let cool a couple minutes. Sprinkle with salt and drizzle with honey, toss gently. Sprinkle with granola!

For a fun and slightly sweet side, try Granola Honey Sweet Potato Fries. These fries are baked to crispy perfection and topped with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of crunchy granola. They’re great for snacking or as a side for burgers or grilled chicken. These are adapted from a recipe I developed for my Cooking For One for Dummies cookbook (page 215)

4. Chipotle Sweet Potato Soup with Cilantro Chimichurri

Chipotle Sweet Potato Soup with Cilantro Chimichurri brings bold, smoky flavors to the table. This creamy vegan soup is balanced with the fresh, zesty punch of cilantro chimichurri, making it a perfect choice for a warming side or light meal.

5. Purple Sweet Potato Salad with Figs, Pomegranate & Balsamic Syrup

Purple Sweet Potato Salad with Figs, Pomegranate and Balsamic Syrup.

Turn heads at the table with Purple Sweet Potato Salad with Figs, Pomegranate & Balsamic Syrup. This vibrant and visually stunning dish combines the earthy flavors of purple sweet potatoes with the sweetness of figs, tart pomegranate arils, and a drizzle of balsamic syrup. It’s a perfect side for festive meals or special occasions.

These sweet potato side dishes showcase the versatility of this humble root vegetable, with options ranging from comforting to elegant. Which one will you try first? Let me know in the comments or tag @TheFitFork on Instagram with your recreations!

Apple Cranberry Beet Crisp: A Festive and Healthy Dessert

Posted on November 17, 2024 by Jennifer FIsher

They say, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” so why not add beets to the mix for a superfood upgrade this holiday season? Introducing Apple Cranberry Beet Crisp—a wholesome, delicious, and perfectly portioned winter fruit dessert that will make your festive table shine.

This inspired by a beet dessert, celebrates the sweetness of baked apples and tart cranberries without relying on added sugars. Instead, it gets its natural sweetness and a healthful boost from superfood drink mix, Total Beets that has a pomegranate berry flavor (check the recipe for swaps). Beets are known for their heart-healthy and energy-enhancing benefits, making this a no-sugar fruit dessert that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

While there are no actual fresh beets in this recipe (I’m embarrassed to say as a fit foodie they aren’t my favorite), you can still add a bit to the fruit mixture, if desired. Just use less cranberry and/or apple, and add in the same amount of chopped beets.

The oat and walnut topping provides a nutty crunch, complementing the soft, juicy baked fruit. I’ve used pecans, but walnuts would be tasty too! The hardest part of making this recipe? Waiting for the crisp to finish baking while the heavenly aroma fills your kitchen!

These personal-sized desserts are perfect for holiday dinners, cozy gatherings, or even as a treat-yourself moment. I used colorful red ramekins with lids to capture the mood of the season. Enjoy them warm from the oven, or top with a dollop of whipped cream or creamy yogurt for an extra touch of indulgence.

With no added sugar and a nutrition profile that satisfies both cravings and health goals, this Apple Cranberry Crisp is a dessert you can feel good about eating.

Apple Cranberry Beet Crisps

Prep Time

10 mins

Cook Time

40 mins

Total Time

50 mins

These yummy, single-portion fruit desserts are a smart way to reduce sugar while reaping beet’s superfood benefits. An oat and walnut topping adds a complimentary texture to the sweet and juicy baked fruit. The hardest thing about this recipe is smelling the yumminess while it bakes!

Course: Dessert

Keyword: apples, beet, beet powder, christmas, cranberries, cranberry, holiday, thanksgiving

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 283 kcal

Ingredients

2 cups chopped apple
1.5 cups fresh cranberries
4 scoops Force Factor Total Beets* *SWAPS: (2 tbsp regular beet root powder, 2 tbsp granulated stevia baking blend). OR, skip beets and just add 1/4 cup maple syrup.
½ cup chopped walnuts (or pecans) about 2 oz
½ cup rolled oats
¼ cup coconut sugar
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1/8 tsp salt
2 tbsp coconut flour
2 tbsp coconut oil

Instructions

Preheat oven to375 F
Add apples and cranberries to bowl and sprinkle with beet powder; toss until fruit is coated with the powder.
Divide fruit mixture among four 8-ounce ramekins.
For topping, combine chopped walnuts, rolled oats, coconut flour, cinnamon and salt. Drizzle with coconut oil (or mash in with a fork if it is still solid state); mix until a crumby texture is formed.
Top fruit in ramekins with the topping, pressing down lightly to pack in.
Place ramekins on a baking sheet and bake for about 40 minutes or until fruit is softened, juices are bubbling and the topping has turned light golden brown.
Serve warm, and if desired, with your preference in ice cream, yogurt, whipped cream, etc.

Recipe Notes