From the Heart

Most workout nuts tend to be loners. And most monitor their heart rates during exercise. Fittingly, a Virginia company now offers a talking heart rate monitor. Heartalker speaks in a human voice and delivers heart rate info, workout time and even motivational messages. The Heartalker, which is attached to the chest during exercise, comes in two models, called “Ken” and, slightly fancier, “Mike.” But you’re free to rename them Hans and Franz if you like. Ken is $59.95 and Mike is $79.95. Information: (800) 639-5432.

Piece of Peace

Is your greatest holiday wish for peace on Earth? Can’t help you, but if you’re willing to settle for a half-hour of peace for you and you alone, author Susan Mandell has the ticket. Actually, she has a 36-minute audiocassette for sale called “Your Present: A Half-Hour of Peace.” According to a press release, the “silkened voiced” Mandell takes listeners on a “gentle journey to a quiet place, effortlessly floating worries and stresses away, allowing them . . . for a little while . . . to just ‘let go.’ ” Are you listening global terrorists, thugs and ne’er-do-wells? Price: $12.95. Information: (888) NOW-RELAX.

Skin Deep

Larry King. Robert Shapiro.

Like everyone else, you’re probably wondering how they got such beautiful skin. In their testimonials, they give credit for the special glow to the Van Essen Wellness Centre in Beverly Hills. This holiday, the skin-care salon is marketing gift certificates as a healthy alternative to the traditional corporate gift of wine and food baskets. King says he gives his staff a half-day at the salon for their hard work. Certificates for $25 and over are available. Information: (888) 988-2661.

Wheeling in the Years

As these folks see it, the problem with conventional bikes is that you have to pedal. Sure, there are cars and motorcycles, but what happens if you want to pedal sometimes and glide along at others? They believe they have the answer. It’s the Worldbike, a pedal-optional bike, ideal for aging boomers and other “exercise-challenged” people, according to the bike’s makers at ZAP Electric Bikes. The “human-electric hybrid” has a range of 15 miles--after that, it’s time to recharge or start pedaling. Price: $499. Information: (800) 251-4555.