sporting goods stores are chock full of gadgets as well as more conventional tools to fit the requirements of health-conscious individuals. Set in the corner of the Vallis Building on Par-La-Ville Road as a sidearm to the International Sports Shop is the latest outlet offering equipment to mold the perfect body. From brightly coloured dumbbells to the complete home gym, this addition has everything to satisfy novices to the more serious athlete. For a vigorous cardiovascular workout there are machines which combine movement of the legs and upper body. Falling into this category are the bulky stairmasters found in most large gyms along with adjustable speed treadmills and stationary bikes. A Cadence 3250 single horsepower treadmill (special order required) costs a little more than $1,000, while the top of the line Pro Form 1026 that can reach up to 10 miles-per-hour is similarly available on order. There is also the Jack LaLane step -- the same as advertised on television -- which fits comfortably in any gym bag and can be pulled out for a quick workout in Delve into the sporting world for a happy and healthy Christmas offering up to 30 different exercises using the flex resistance bands. A smaller compact model, ideal for those conscious of space requirements, is also on hand for the bargain price of $295. Gloves, weight-belts, compression shorts, aerobic steps and numerous other accessories make up the total package offered. And not to be forgotten are various vitamins and nutritional supplements on hand to maintain that energy level. "Ganzi'' shell suits are the big sell at the Pro Shop on Reid Street with the Adidas and Lavon lines most popular among children and adults alike. Starting at $85, these make ideal gifts for fashion conscious youngsters anxious to impress their peers when out at sporting events or just cruising the avenue. Moving along a similar vein are the baseball caps with logos of professional sports teams.

One cannot move about without seeing the names of the Dallas Cowboys or Los Angeles Raiders adorning heads. Not to be left out are basic items such as gym bags, sweat suits and the like. If shopping for the golfing enthusiast, Sports "R'' Us is the one stop for all golfing needs. Clubs, golf bags, balls and gloves are all stocked in abundance at this establishment located in the Shoppers fair Building on Church Street. A Christmas gift pack ($19.95) containing six golf balls, tees and a towel make a nice gift and similarly there is a Christmas stocking full of goodies. However, this place is not limited to a single sport by any means. Baseball, soccer, cricket, pool, darts and basketball are all adequately serviced. Tons of athletic footwear decorate the walls catering to almost any sport one can imagine. Other specials include brand name track suits starting at $49 and they have a new feature in the form of Christian T-shirts. One very unique item is a locker bag which fits in -- where else -- a locker and has a number of compartments to stack away items such as shoes, clothes and toiletries. For kids, there are miniature soccer and basketball games, pool, micro pong (table tennis) and other mini-gadgets to occupy their time. Indeed the list of possibilities is endless. And delving into the sporting world can not only make for a happy Christmas but a healthy one. PHOTO SPORTY GIFTS -- Sports "R'' Us is the place for all your golfing needs. Christmas gift packs and sports stockings are available for all sports enthusiasts.